F A M I LY P R O F I L E
MEET THE BERGSMA FAMILY FAMILY MEMBERS Todd and Jenn Bergsma. Daughter, Meghan, 17, and son, Connor, 13. OCCUPATIONS: Jenn is a universal banking officer at Rivers Edge Bank where she’s worked for 17 Years. Todd has been a deputy for the Sioux County Sheriff’s office for 19 years. WHERE DID YOU GROW UP? Todd said, “Jenn and I are both from Orange City. I was working for the Hawarden Police Department when we met. Then she got a job at First State Bank, now Rivers Edge Bank. Everything fell into place for us in Hawarden. We are able to worship in Hawarden, our children are in the West Sioux School District, and Jenn works here in town. Over the past 20 years, this has become our home and clearly where we were meant to be.”
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR CURRENT CAREER FIELDS? Jenn said, “Todd and I are both in the careers which we went to school for. Todd attended Iowa Lakes Community College for law enforcement and then went through the Police Academy. I went to the University of Sioux Falls and Northwestern College for a degree in business administration.”
WHAT’S THE BEST THING ABOUT LIVING IN HAWARDEN? “The people,” Jenn said. “We cannot say enough about the outpouring of support that was given to Todd and I as we established our family here. As new community members, we were greeted with the warmest welcome. There is always someone there to lend you their trailer because you’re moving or a neighbor who always has an egg or cup of sugar when you are out. We thrive on the generosity of others and will strive to do the same as we continue to live in Hawarden. All of us cherish the friendships we’ve made here.”
22 | HAWARDEN TODAY
Meaghan, Todd, Jenn and Connor Bergsma.
WHAT KEEPS YOU ACTIVE IN HAWARDEN? Jenn said, “Hawarden offers us many opportunities to stay active in the community. We like to attend all events at school. We have enjoyed and continue to watch our children perform in sports and at music concerts. We are lucky to have them in a great school district.” Todd added, “We enjoy camping, fishing and just being outdoors. With Big Sioux Recreation Area and Oak Grove State Park just outside of Hawarden, we are able to go camping or fishing on a whim.” Jenn said, “Working at Rivers Edge Bank has given me opportunities to meet so many people in the community. Rivers Edge works hard to make sure their employees are appreciated and they encourage community involvement. I am thankful for opportunities to help plan community activities as a member of the Hawarden Chamber Events Committee. Festival of Trees during Christmas has a special place in my heart – everyone is so creative with designs during the most wonderful time of the year. “I also serve on the Hawarden City Council. What an opportunity it is to learn what it takes for Hawarden to function as a city. It’s been a rewarding experience,” she said.
