Obituary of Dr. Richard J. Bergin

Dr. Richard J. Bergin, known to many as Dick, RJB, and Doc, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on March 1, 2024. Born and raised in Auburn, NY in 1929, Dick lived most of his adult life in Elco, NV where he practiced Veterinary Medicine for almost 38 years before relocating back to Auburn in 1997. Dick is survived by his eight loving children and their spouses: Tom Woods (Kathy), Lynda Wells (Don), Nancy Woods, David Woods, John Woods, Patti Schlegel (John), Beth Baier (Jim) and Katie Liccion (Rick). He is also survived by his sisters: Nora Lems and Lila Christensen; and a very special niece, Celeste Bergin; as well as several other nieces and nephews; and countless grandchildren; and great-grandchildren. Dick had two great loves in his life, his wife, Barbara Bergin and his second wife, Mary Woods. Barbara predeceased in 1997 and was by his side while he completed his education in Kansas City. They went on to build a booming Veterinary Practice together in Elco, NV. He was President of the Nevada Veterinarians Association and a member of the Veterinarians Medical Examiners. He retired in 1996 and later cared for Barbara when she became ill. Dick reacquainted with Mary, when he came back to Auburn for a class reunion. He soon uprooted his life and moved back to Auburn where they married, traveled, tasted many a good wine, and he happily took on her eight adult children. Dick cared for Mary at home until she passed in 2018 after 19 years of marriage. As Mary's family, we firmly believe that fate brought us Dick Bergin to not only love and care for our mother but so that we could, in turn, care for him. We are honored to have had this amazing man in our lives and we're so grateful that he is at peace now. There will be a Celebration of Life at a later time. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Hospice of the Finger Lakes.