James L. Bergen, “Rambo” left this world November 11, 2022 at age 65.

James was born in Kansas City, KS, the first born child to James and Rholda Bergen. Later moved to New Jersey, he was once told by a School Career Counselor/Coach that he would never be a mechanic or Fabricator as his math skills were not strong enough.

James moved to Georgia with his family and was encouraged to go to the Lockheed School by his mother, which he did. He was hired by Lockheed Marietta straight out of the Lockheed School in March 1979, near the top of his class.

James hired in as an Assembly mechanic on the C-141 and progressed on to C-5 Wing Modification. Hw went on as a Precision Assembler – Fabrication at B-6 Fabrication/Sheet Metal and Tubes. Later he became a 407 working in B-1 Metal Worker/Bench and ended his career as a Machine Parts Inspector, Developmental Mechanic Inspection. James was said to be a genius at blue prints, tubes, and templates. He is said to have developed over 75% of the shop aides in his areas of work.

He was always willing to help or be helped if needed. He was well liked and liked to share jokes, “good or bad” to anyone willing to listen. Others often asked advice or he would share his experience with others. He was also a motorhead and worked on his own vehicles into his 50s.

James was preceded in death by both parents and is survived by his wife: Kathy Gagnon, his sweetheart of 30 years; his brothers: Matt Bergen, Chris Bergen, Dave Bergen; his sister Shannon Jones; nieces and nephews.

James’ ashes will be placed in rest Friday December 2, 2022 at 11 AM at Westminster Gardens, 2090 Georgia Hwy 54, Peachtree City, GA 30269.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to Jim’s favorite charity, the Salvation Army.