Henry Bergman, a physical phenomenon known to dominate Santa Barbara beaches before the likes of Karch Kiraly and Todd Rogers, will be remembered by friends and admirers later this month. At 65 years old, Bergman passed away Oct. 5, ending the life of a legend.

Bergman stood out as a star in the volleyball world during a playing career spanning 1965-1973. An icon in the era before the sport offered professional competition (the first commercially sponsored beach tournament occurred in 1974), he never attained the fame and fortune athletes of similar skill have since come to know. Although Bergman’s career winnings total $0, he belongs in the top echelon of the all-time greats.

Known for booming hits that petrified opponents, “Big Henry” won 15 of the 33 “Open” tournaments he entered. Also known as “Mr. Automatic,” Bergman was just that in 1970, when he won six of his seven events. Bergman won seven titles apiece with Larry Rundle and Ron Von Hagen. He also won with Ron Lang.

Of the 18 events he didn’t win, Bergman finished second eight times. He never failed to finish in the top five of a tournament.

Rundle and many other contemporaries from Santa Barbara High School, the beach, and all walks of life will gather to share memories on Saturday, Nov. 21. The memorial service will take place at 1:30 p.m. at Café del Sol, located at 30 Los Patos Way in Santa Barbara. Everyone is invited to attend.

For more information on the gathering, feel free to contact Las Kiraly at (805) 680-6139.