Elmer and Kaya Berg were cherished members of the Fargo-Moorhead community, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire.
Elmer grew up in Fargo and went on to serve in the U.S. Air Force before building Berg Fargo Motor Supply, a business he founded in 1946. Over the next five decades, the company grew into a successful, multi-generational business, something Elmer credited to the loyalty of his employees and the strength of the community he called home.
In 1961, Elmer married Kaya Johnson, and together they built a life filled with family, travel and faith. Elmer and Kaya supported causes that strengthened the community, with a focus on Basic Human Needs, Education and Health & Wellness. They were active in civic and faith communities and gave generously to local organizations, schools and initiatives that helped others thrive.
“Fargo has been so good to me, and I want to give back what I can,” Elmer often said.
Today, their legacy lives on through the Elmer & Kaya Berg Giving Fund, which has its own grant round run through the FM Area Foundation. This fund continues their commitment by supporting organizations addressing the same needs the Bergs cared so deeply about.
Their children and grandchildren actively work to carry on their parents’ mission of uplifting the community. Each grant awarded is a reflection of Elmer and Kaya’s vision. Through their charitable fund, the family celebrates Elmer and Kaya’s memory and fosters a culture of giving that unites our community through compassion and generosity.
If your organization is working in these areas, we invite you to be part of this ongoing legacy by applying for a grant.
"Fargo has been so good to me, and I want to give back what I can."
“We wanted the scholarship to live on as a legacy for Norman and I in our communities to encourage a young person as they seek their dreams.”
“Serving on the Foundation board enables me to support efforts to strengthen our community.”
“We are thrilled to engage our daughters as future advisors to our fund. Knowing there will always be a family member to guide our charitable intent makes us feel great.”
“Anything that can motivate a child’s love of reading deserves support. Read to Lead can be such a vehicle.”
“Thank you to the Women's Fund for supporting our moms and children.”
“The community foundation is specifically created to encourage and nourish the giving spirit in the community.”
“Thanks to support from the FM Area Foundation, we completed two major projects. We're very grateful for the Foundation’s generosity as these projects support our mission to preserve and maintain the historic facility.”
“Support through the FM Area Foundation and its supporters has created an immeasurable impact on our work — delivering hope and fostering a sense of belonging for so many in our community going through a tender time in life. This ripple of kindness is cultivating joy and shared connection in our community, just because, and only made possible through generous donors. What a beautiful gift to know your community cares about you!”
