Edvard Larsson Rondberg

Who was Mr Edvard Larsson Rondberg?

Mr Edvard Larsson Rondberg was a 22 (twenty-two) year-old Swedish cook and third-class passenger aboard the ill-fated RMS Titanic. Born in Lysvik, Sweden, Rondberg had established a life in Missoula, Montana, before returning to his homeland to bring his fiancée to America. Tragically, his journey was cut short when he perished in the Titanic disaster on April 15, 1912.

Early Life and Family

Swedish Roots

Edvard Larsson Rondberg was born on December 2, 1889, in Lysvik, Värmlands County, Sweden. He was the son of Lars Persson, a crofter born on August 17, 1858, and Maria Nilsdotter, born on November 18, 1862. His parents married on March 25, 1881, and the family later adopted the surname Ramberg.

Siblings and Family Life

Edvard was part of a large family, with eight known siblings:

• Emma Teresia (born July 13, 1881)
• Nils Johan (born July 7, 1884)
• Erik Viktor (born January 12, 1887)
• Anna Regina (born July 16, 1893)
• Berta Albertina (born March 16, 1896)
• Lars Arvid (born March 14, 1898)
• Otto Helmer (born November 1, 1900)
• Signe Maria (born July 30, 1902)

Journey to America and Early Career

When did Edvard first travel to America?

Edvard Larsson, who preferred the surname Rondberg over Ramberg, first ventured to North America on August 11, 1908, at the age of 18 (eighteen). This bold move would shape the course of his short life.

Life in Missoula, Montana

Upon arriving in America, Edvard settled in Missoula, Montana. He resided at 533 East Trent Street and worked as a cook. His culinary skills found employment at the Atlantic restaurant, where he became well-known in the local community.

Family Connections in America

Edvard’s brother Nils also immigrated to America, settling in Beaver, Montana. Both brothers adopted the surname Rondberg in their new homeland, solidifying their American identities.

The Fateful Return to Sweden

A Journey of Love

In the fall of 1911, having saved enough money from his work as a cook, Edvard made the decision to return to Sweden. His purpose was not just a visit home, but a mission of love – to bring back his childhood sweetheart and fiancée, Berta Olivia Nilsson.

Boarding the Titanic

Edvard and Berta embarked on their journey back to America, boarding the RMS Titanic at Southampton on April 10, 1912. They traveled as third-class passengers, with Edvard’s ticket (number 347065) costing £7, 15s, 6d.

The Titanic Disaster and Its Aftermath

Tragedy Strikes

On the night of April 14-15, 1912, the Titanic struck an iceberg and sank in the frigid waters of the North Atlantic. Edvard Larsson Rondberg, at just 22 years old, lost his life in the disaster. His body, if recovered, was never identified.

A Tale of Two Fates

In a cruel twist of fate, while Edvard perished in the sinking, his fiancée Berta Nilsson was among the survivors. The young couple’s dream of starting a new life together in Missoula was shattered by the tragedy.

Financial Compensation

Following the disaster, the Mansion House Fund paid 874.08 Kr (£48) to Edvard’s parents as compensation for their loss. Additionally, a claim for damages amounting to 1366.50 Kr (£75) was paid on May 31, 1914.

Legacy and Remembrance

A Community Mourns

The loss of Edvard Rondberg was felt keenly in Missoula, where he had made his American home. A poignant article in the Great Falls Tribune on April 21, 1912, captured the community’s sorrow:

“At the bottom of the Atlantic lies the body of Bertha’s betrothed, a Missoula boy, Edward Rondberg, brother of Nels Rondberg of Beaver, Mont. Edward Rondberg was well known in Missoula where he worked for several years.”

A Dream Unfulfilled

Edvard Larsson Rondberg’s story is a poignant reminder of the human cost of the Titanic disaster. His journey, which began with hope and love, ended tragically, leaving behind a grieving fiancée and a community that would remember him as the cook who had saved for his own American dream, only to have it cruelly snatched away on that fateful April night.