Marian “Big M” “Mernie” Bergman

Marian “Big M” “Mernie” Bergman, born on April 23, 1948, in Cincinnati, Ohio, departed this life on October 18, 2025, in Indianapolis, Indiana, surrounded by her beloved family. A paragon of warmth and strength, Mernie was the lifeblood of her family, a steadfast presence whose ever-smiling face brought joy to all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Marian’s journey began in the vibrant heart of Cincinnati, where she made notable strides in her career as a nursing educator at Deaconess Hospital. Her commitment to the nursing profession laid the groundwork for a life dedicated to caring for others, a hallmark that she imbued into her role as a nurturing mother and loving wife. Family was her foremost passion, and she often exclaimed, “Show me what you got,” a testament to her encouragement of those around her to embrace their true potential.

Devoted to her faith, Marian was a cherished member of Holy Name Catholic Church, while also attending St. Jude Catholic Church and St. Agnes Catholic Church in Brown County. Her spirituality was a guiding light in her life, instilling within her a sense of purpose that resonated through her many relationships.

Marian is survived by her devoted husband, Jerry Bergman; her three adoring children, Molley (Benjamin) Bergman Miller, Jerome Albert (Mandie Kay) Bergman, and Libby (Casey) Bergman Bolsega; her cherished sister, Marthanne Wilkins; her steadfast brother, Jack Wilkins; and her beloved grandchildren, Keigan Miller, Ella Miller, Lilly Grace Bergman, Amelia Grace Bergman, Leona Bolsega, and CJ Bolsega. She also leaves behind a host of several nieces and nephews who held a special place in her heart.

Her legacy is further brightened by the memory of her parents, William and Margaret Case Wilkins; her late brother, Bill Wilkins; and her dear grandchildren, Jerome Albert Bergman III and Grace Elizabeth Bergman, both of whom she loved deeply.

A visitation will be held in her honor on Sunday, October 26, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM at O’Riley – Branson Funeral Service & Crematory, located at 6107 S. East Street, Indianapolis, IN 46227, A Mass of Christian Buril will be on Monday, October 27 at 10:30 AM, at Holy Name Catholic Church, 89 N. 17th Ave, Beech Grove, Indiana 46107. Cremation will follow with burial of ashes later at Calvary Cemetery.

Please visit www.ORileyBranson.com to share a favorite memory or to sign the online guest registry.

Marian “Big M” “Mernie” Bergman lived a life marked by love, laughter, and an unfaltering devotion to her family. Her spirit will remain an enduring source of inspiration, echoing through the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know her.