Bergthor "Beggie" Palsson

July 23, 1944 – January 26, 2026 

With deep sadness, the family of Berthor “Beggie” Palsson shares that he passed away on January 26, 2026, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Beggie was born and raised on Hecla Island, surrounded by its strong Icelandic heritage and close-knit community. He was predeceased by his parents, Berthor (“Beggi”) Palsson Sr. and Helen (Johnson) Palsson, and his sister, Hildur. After completing Grade 11 on Hecla, he moved to Riverton to finish high school and later earned his Bachelor of Arts from the University of Manitoba.

His early career took him to The Pas, where he served as a Probation and Parole Officer, travelling throughout northern Manitoba. During those years, he married and embraced the role of father to two young children, Dan and Dee. Although that chapter changed, his bond with the children remained strong throughout his life, and their presence, love, and grace brought him great comfort in his final days.

Beggie later returned to university to complete his law degree. After practising briefly in Winnipeg, he was invited by Legal Aid Manitoba to open and lead its northern office in The Pas as Area Director. In 1978, he partnered with Ed Sloane to purchase a private law practice in Swan River, eventually running the firm on his own until his retirement in 2014.

Swan River also brought personal joy when he met Karen, whom he married in 1996. He often said it was the best decision he ever made. Beggie and Karen made their home in Swan River until 2024, when health needs brought them to Winnipeg.

Beggie is lovingly remembered by his wife Karen; her children, Leah (Robert) and Dennis (Kat); his children, Dan (Brenda) and Dee (Jamie); his nephews, Thor and Sean; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A founding member of the Community Foundation of Swan Valley, Beggie was proud of its lasting impact on the region. His gentle nature, quiet strength, and kindness defined him. Standing 6’4”, he was known as a “gentle Icelandic giant,” steady and thoughtful in all he did.

He loved simple comforts—apple fritters, Skyr with berries, pancakes, home-cooked meals, and watching sports. He especially treasured family gatherings and held a deep and enduring love for Leah and Dennis, who were a cherished and important part of his life.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the doctors, nurses, and attendants who cared for him, and to the teams at St. Boniface Palliative Care, Grace Hospice, and Voyage Funeral Home.

Donations may be made to the Community Foundation of Swan Valley (http://cfsv.ca) or to a charity of choice.