Victor C. Bertelson

Victor Charles Bertelson, 71, passed away peacefully at his home in Norfolk, Virginia, on March 29, 2026, while watching the NCAA basketball tournament with his eldest daughter and devoted caregiver, Jeannie. Victor was born on June 14, 1954, in Charles City, Iowa, to Robert Charles Bertelson, affectionately known as “Shorty,” and Maxine (Moser) Bertelson. If you knew Victor, you knew him simply as “Vic.” Victor grew up in Charles City, where he formed lifelong friendships with Steve Hoeft and Bob and Chuck Carey. Their enduring bond, filled with regular phone calls and shared memories, remained a constant source of joy and comfort throughout his life. In 1974, Victor proudly joined the United States Navy, serving his country with dedication for twenty years on active duty, followed by ten years in the reserves. He often spoke with pride about his service, fondly joking that he “got paid to travel to places people usually pay to visit.” Victor had a deep love for sports and stayed engaged with current events. He was known for his humor, storytelling, and the pride he carried for his family and his life experiences. Victor was previously married to Bertha (Bert) Bertling of Fort Worth, Texas. Together they had two daughters, Christina (Christy) Bertelson and Kayla (Bertelson) Caswell, both of whom reside in the Fort Worth area. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Janet (Emmel) Eubank, who passed in April 2023. Though their marriage ended, they remained lifelong friends. He is survived by his three sisters, Connie Bertelson Savoy, Jean Bertelson Adams, and Linda Sue Baker. Victor leaves behind his children: Jeannie Davis (Antonio); Vicki Johnson (Donald); Melinda Bertelson-Clover (Rob); Christina (Christy) Bertelson; Kayla (Bertelson) Caswell; and Eric Bertelson (Chelly). He was a proud grandfather to Derek, Darel (wife Tori), Antonia, Amber Porter (Michael), Landon Bertelson, Eric Bertelson Jr. (partner Ty Foreman), Nigel Bertelson, Jessica Murray (Austin), Brandon Bertelson, Courtney Johnson (Corey), and Matthew Burch (Denay). He was also blessed with great-grandchildren: Jonathan and Jace Brinkley, Kai Bertelson, Jamal and Jasir (sons of Antonia), and Zakeiya and Jade (daughters of Derek), Leilani Bertelson(daughter of Brandon, Wade James, Marlee Enders(son and daughter of Courtney, and Dylan Burch(son of Matthew) Victor shared a special bond with his dear friend, Theresa McCrimon, whose kindness, cooking, and care brought him comfort and support for many years. He also found companionship in his beloved cat, Dale, who was his loyal roommate for many years and held a special place in his heart. Victor will be remembered for his dedication to his country, his love of family, his humor, and the lasting connections he maintained throughout his life. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Victor C. Bertelson

June 14, 1954 - March 29, 2026