Donald "Donnie" Leonard Bergstrom Jr., age 71, of Willmar, passed away Friday, February 6, at Bethesda Grand in Willmar.

A private family service will be held at a later date.  Arrangements are entrusted to Peterson Brothers Funeral Home.  www.petersonbrothers.com

Donnie was born on September 5, 1954, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, the son of Donald Sr. and Marie (Serbus) Bergstrom.  He grew up and received his education in the Olivia community.  Growing up in the 60's and 70's, Donnie lived a "free-spirited" life and was nicknamed "Freebird" by those who knew him.  Donnie was married to Wanda Young.  They made their home in Willmar and were later divorced.  Over the years, Donnie worked as a chef and then in the construction business.

Donnie later earned a certification in counseling in Minneapolis and became employed at the Willmar State Hospital as a Chemical Dependency Counselor.  He wrote the counseling program for those with addiction problems which is still in place today.  Donnie sponsored many individuals to get clean from addiction.  He later became disabled and was forced to retire.  

Donnie enjoyed riding motorcycles, listening to rock music, playing video games, talking loudly, and being with his family and friends.  He was proud to be unique and loved helping others in need.

He is survived by one daughter, Wanda (and Roger) Moen of Willmar; and six grandchildren, Richard Moen, Namira (and Hailey) Moen, Cheyeann (and Christopher) Nelson, Jamie Keehn, Jenna Keehn and Anthony Keehn, besides other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by one son, Richard Keehn; both of his wives, Nancy and Wanda; and his parents.