The old students of WM Bristow Secondary School, Gboko under the umbrella body of the Bristow Alumni Association (BAA) on Monday flagged off a weeklong period for the death of the schools pioneer principal, Prof. Harold Milton Bergsma. He was aged 91 years.
Bergsma, who was a native of the USA city of San Diego, California passed away in his sleep on August 7, 2023.
The BAA National President, Dr. Msugh Gbila, on behalf of the EXCO and the entire BAA members, extended his heartfelt condolence to the family of the late professor and prayed God to console them.
Also present at the occasion were BAA’s BOT Chairman, Engr. Isaiah Bajah; Mr. Adzor Jen, the principal of WM Bristow Secondary School; Mr. Sam Percy, former president of BAA; Barr. Yega Iornum, the legal adviser of BAA, and Rev. Terpase Mkrna, among many others.
The Africanscholar learnt that Bergsma’s missionary works in Nigeria and beyond led many to Christianity, and provided quality education, which is the foundation of modern development around the globe.
His many writings about the Tiv tribe in Nigeria, including the translation of the History of the Tiv by Late Akiga Sai are a testament to the sacrifices and ideals emblematised by the Late Bergsma.
Following his demise, the BAA President requested the association’s members who wish to write condolence messages to do so and place them on BAA social media handles or send them directly to the EXCO through the P.R.O on whatsapp (08069204341).
People are also encouraged to send their condolence messages to orjimeigbakura@gmail.com.
“Such would be collated and forwarded to the family since the Late Dr. Bergsma as part of his wishes, desired that no public service be held in respect of his death,”: said BAA in a statement
