Passed away peacefully at her home on August 5, 2018 – 15 years to the day that George, her husband of 59 years, passed away. Her goal was to live to be 100 years old and she was able to achieve this milestone 21 days earlier.
Bertha’s family includes children Kathlyn Kuenn (Jim), Richard, Barbara Quinby (John), Margery Degen (Al), and Michael; dearest friend Shelly Kretchmar; and grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
She lived a full life which included many activities throughout the year – hosting Easter and Kentucky Derby parties, enjoying concerts, visiting parks and the Domes, going on pumpkin carving walks and decorating her house for Christmas. She loved doing puzzles and playing cards and board games, but she would only play with you if you had a quarter because she intended to win your money. She also loved gardening and spending time in her yard.
Bertha was an amazing lady who smiled with her eyes and had a special greeting for everyone who was in her life. Family was incredibly important to her. She loved hosting people and always made sure that they had something to eat and drink. She was a skillful baker and everyone loved her pies, cookies, and desserts. (And her jello.) Every Christmas, she would bake 50 different types of cookies, put together cookie tins and then mail them to family and friends throughout the country.
At Bertha’s request, interment is private. Her hospitality continues as her family welcomes guests to share memories at 2:00 pm and a meal at 3:00 pm on Thursday, August 9. Please contact family for details.
A fond farewell to the Cookie Lady who has permanently retired and hung up her apron for the last time.
In lieu of gifts or flowers, donations can be made to The Domes or a Food Pantry.