About the author...
Gilbert Theodore Bergquist (“Gib” to
his friends) was born on August 11, 1924, the second of four sons born to Francis Raymond
and Annie Inez (nee Brown) Bergquist in Pierce, Florida. He died June 11,
2006 at the age of 81.
He graduated from Mulberry High School in 1942
and attended the University of Florida, until he joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 1943. After three
years of military service, he returned to Gainesville to complete his Bachelor of Science
degree and obtain a master of science degree in biology.
In 1951, Gib joined the Federal Bureau of
Investigation as a Special Agent and, during the course of his 24-year career, was
assigned to various field offices across the country.
While attached to F.B.I. Headquarters in
Washington, D.C., he obtained another master of science degree, in forensic science, from
George Washington University. He retired from the F.B.I. in 1975.
In 1979, he moved back to his native Florida and
has enthusiastically pursued his many interests which include reading, gardening, Boy
Scouts, fishing, school volunteer work, photography, Little League coaching, crafts, as
well as the chronicling of Florida history and other interesting events in his Cracker’s
Crumbs columns. In addition, he was a member of the Florida Association of Museums
State Board, Past Chairman of the Manatee County Historical Commission, a member of the
Anna Maria Island Community Center Board and the Holmes Beach Police Department Retirement
Board.
A father of five, (Gib
Jr.; Debbie; Laura; Kevin and Marisa) he spent his final years living on his
beloved Anna Maria Island with his wife Madeleine.