Aeronautical Engineer, Space Scientist, Author

Norman Riley Bergrun, a long time resident of Los Altos Hills, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 1st at Tracy Nursing and Rehabilitation Center at the age of 96. He lived in Los Altos Hills for 52 years before relocating to the Central Valley to be closer to his family following the loss of his beloved wife, Claire, in 2010. Norman was educated at Cornell University with post graduate study at Stanford University. Upon moving to the Bay Area, he was a scientist at Ames Research Center. Mr. Bergrun played an active role in all-weather flight, as well as the control of high speed airplanes. He later worked at Lockheed where he managed a team that analyzed Polaris missile tests. Subsequently he became fascinated with outer space and did extensive research while developing his own theories. In 1986, he published a book entitled Ringmakers of Saturn. Over the years he found true enjoyment in music, was an avid skier, had a passion for photography, and was well known for his stylish bow-ties.

Norman is survived by his children Clark Bergrun and daughter in law Elaine Bergrun of Tracy, Jay Bergrun of San Jose, Joan Bergrun Ryan of Reno, Nevada, and granddaughter Melanie Bergrun of Tracy, as well as nieces and nephews and their respective families.

Family and friends are invited to a Memorial Service in celebration of his life at The Stanford University Memorial Church, on Tuesday, July 10 at 4:00 PM.