The passing of Rex Bergstrand has left the travel industry missing one of their favorite sons and a hole in the heart of everyone who loved him. Having spent his childhood in North Dakota and Arizona, he moved to California in the mid 60's, spending time in Hollywood and San Francisco (boy did he have stories!), before landing in West Hollywood where he resided for almost 30 years.

Rex was a long time member of the Hospitality industry serving in sales management positions at several high profile hotels in the Los Angeles area such as The Century Plaza Hotel, Sunset Marquis Hotel and Villas, Mondrian Hotel, Westwood Marquis Hotel, Le Parc Suites Hotel, The Loews Beverly Hills Hotel; most recently known as The Tower - Beverly Hills.

He served as a member of the Board of Directors for the West Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and was active in many West Hollywood City projects and initiatives.

Not that he wasn't busy enough, Rex was a long time supporter of several HIV/AIDS charities including Tuesday's Child, Los Angeles AIDS Foundation and AIDS Project Los Angeles.

A devoted son, brother and friend. Rex had a deep appreciation for beauty whether it was observing and admiring the architecture in Los Angeles, window shopping in art galleries and furnishings boutiques in West Hollywood or simply appreciating nature on long walks in his neighborhood and hikes in surrounding areas. He loved to laugh and bring laughter and joy to those around him.

Predeceased by long time partner, Clayton. Survived by Mother, Maxine Bergstrand Perkett, Brother, Dr. John Bergstrand, Twin Brother and Sister-in-Law, Terry and Susan Bergstrand, a niece, Jill and nephews Matt, Shawn and Jeffrey.

On a personal note - someone said it best to me the other day when they said that they were still in denial about Rex's passing and that sentiment holds true for me as well. I met Rex when he was working for the Hotel Nikko. It was my first trip to Los Angeles, I was new to this industry and more than a little anxious about doing a good job and everyone liking me. Rex came down to the lobby walked over and gave me a big hug as his hello - that never changed. Mostly after that I saw him at our Agent Events and each time him he greeted me with that same wonderful hug. I came to look so forward to seeing him and getting his squeeze of reassurance. For me when I walk into our events I will never be able to do so without thinking about Rex and how much I miss him and his hug!