Ernest “Ernie” “Jim” Berg

Ernest “Ernie” “Jim” Berg, 68, of rural Blair, died Thursday, February 25, 2021, from injuries sustained in an automobile accident.

Jim was born June 13, 1952, in La Crosse to Ernest Norman and Janice H. (Brown) Berg. Ernie grew up in rural Ettrick on the family dairy farm in French Creek. A farmer at heart, Ernie had a strong work ethic. He was baptized and confirmed at French Creek Lutheran Church in rural Ettrick.

Ernie graduated from Gale-Ettrick High School in 1970. He then enlisted in the U.S. Army following his father’s footsteps into the service. After returning home, he took a welding course at Western Technical College, which led him on a path as a great welder and fabricator. His first major welding job was on a nuclear power plant in Byron, IL. It was here that he met and married June Swanson. They later divorced.

After finishing the power plant, he returned to the Ettrick area and opened a welding shop in Hegg. Ernie later moved that shop to Blair, where he was currently doing welding and fabrication work.

Ernie loved his tractors, especially the Allis-Chalmers.

Ernie is survived by two sisters: Diane (Pete) Becker of Galesville and Judy (Roger) Casberg of Holmen; a brother, John (Jean) Berg of Melrose; and several nieces and nephews.

Ernie was preceded in death by his parents.

Memorial services will be held Saturday, March 6, 2021, at 12:00 p.m., at Jack Funeral Home with burial and military rites conducted by the Runnestrand-Peterson American Legion Post #354 at Rest Haven Cemetery, both in Blair. Pastor Anna Sorenson will officiate.

Friends may call one hour prior to the service.

Following the service there will be Celebration of Life at the Block House, N2098 Sandberg Road, Melrose.