Born in Canada, Lorraine went to Ireland when she was 2 years old and grew up in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Lorraine returned to Canada in 1966 at 13 years old. Lorraine married the love of her life, Randy Bergstrand, on March 30, 1974. Lorraine cherished their relationship deeply and would often tell stories to all that would listen about how “crazy my husband is for me”. They lived in Hamilton until 1977 when she and husband Randy bought 5 acres along the grand river in Dunnville where they raised their two children and many dogs over the next 45 plus years.
Lorraine started out as a successful small business owner, humbly grooming dogs from her home in Dunnville. From there, Lorraine was elected to Dunnville Town Council Ward 1. Lorraine then moved on to Regional Council for Haldimand-Norfolk before successfully becoming the last Mayor of Dunnville and continued on to proudly become the first Mayor of Haldimand County after it was newly formed. Lorraine was proud of her time at Harthill homes, and the work she did with Toronto Motorsports Park. However, Lorraine was particularly proud of the groundbreaking work she performed for the non-profit organization, the Haldimand-Norfolk Literacy Council.
Lorraine loved all life but especially her sacred trees, horses, dogs and the group of deer that frequently roamed her property. Lorraine loved to relax with a glass of Yellowtail red wine in front of her fireplace while watching Coronation Street with her husband. Lorraine had a strong affinity for Indigenous culture and surrounded herself with her favorite artwork which often included Wolves. Lorraine was known for her firm stance with her political views – she certainly did not like Trump. Lorraine had a small group of solid friends, whom she referred to as “her people”, that were there for her all the way through until the end. She loved you – you know who you all are.
A visitation will be held at JW Hart Funeral Home,Dunnville March 26, 2023 from 1:00 to 4:00 pm. Followed by a celebration of life at the Dunnville Community Lifespan Center 275 Ramsey Drive, Dunnville from 4pm-7pm catered by her favourite restaurant “Debb’s Cuisine”. Online condolences jwhartfuneralhome.com
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Lorraine was a good friend. We had some awesome visits and conversations prior to covid keeping us apart and I would have enjoyed more. I’ll miss her as will many.
Sending my heartfelt sympathy to Lorraine’s family and friends! May the happy memories of Lorraine carry you through this very sad and difficult time! Reunited with her beautiful mom Elizabeth who was my great friend!
Randy and families we are truly sorry for your loss of a wife, mother, grandmother and friend. She will be missed by all. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this most difficult time.
Our sincere condolences to Donna & family, you are in our thoughts&prayers 💕