DR. CATHERINE E. BERGERON, age 59, of Hancock, New Hampshire passed away in Keene at Cheshire Medical Center on Tuesday, September 20th after a lengthy illness.
Catherine was born in Nashua, NH on June 21st, 1963 and grew up in Hudson, NH.
She was preceded in death by her father, Robert P. Bergeron, and by her brother, Martin J. Bergeron.
Catherine is survived by her mother, Ann T. (Hansberry) Bergeron of Hudson, NH and by six siblings: Paul R. (Meghan Brady) Nashua, NH; Stephen A. (Linda Ripley) Norton Shores, MI; Thomas M. (Mary) West Olive, MI; Philip E. (Leane) Zebulon, NC; John G. (Suzanne) Bedford, NH; and Mary Menna (Raymond) Newtown, PA. Catherine is also survived by 14 nieces and nephews and 12 great-nieces and nephews.
Dr. Bergeron was well known throughout the region as a clinician, consultant, mentor, and teacher, serving individuals with developmental disabilities, brain injuries, and behavioral health challenges. She most recently was the Clinical Director of Adult Services for Gateways Community Services. She possessed rare gifts in supporting her teams, keeping her sense of humor, and seeing the unique strengths and opportunities in people and situations. Dr. Bergeron completed her doctorate in Clinical Psychology at the Union Institute and University; her Master’s in Education - Emotional and Behavior Disorders at Keene State University; and her Bachelor’s in Education at Western Michigan University. She was an experienced educator, teaching children with special needs at the Symonds School of Keene, NH and was a licensed School Psychologist in NH and other states. She evolved through her career as a direct support provider, group home manager, teacher, case manager, behavior analyst, counselor, educational consultant, and program director working for school districts, the Plus Company, the Lakeview School, and Gateways Community Services, among others. She touched the lives of many with her knowledge, compassion, belief in every individual’s potential, and deep respect for human dignity.
Catherine found great joy in her family and friends, road trips, time at the beach, and sharing adventures, meals, music, and stories with those she loved - usually with a dog by her side. Her laughter was contagious, and her independent spirit an inspiration to all who knew her. She will be sorely missed by her family, her friends, and her colleagues.
In support of the community where Catherine worked, memorial donations in her name may be made to Gateways Community Services, 144 Canal St., Nashua, NH 03064 [https://www.gatewayscs.org].
At Catherine’s request, a private service and burial will be held at a later date in Hudson, NH where she grew up.
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