The Final Years

In the fall of 1982, Gertrude was finding it difficult to take care of her financial record books. Other things also began to bother her. She had lost her appetite and her general health seemed to be failing.

At Christmas time she had always sent cards to all her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. Also, she sent cards to nieces, nephews, friends, and neighbors. This was a tremendous task for her but she enjoyed choosing the card for each individual.

This year most of the choosing and addressing of the cards had to be done by others. She managed to sign her name to most of the cards. Before Christmas she had stomach problems and was unable to get to Mass on Christmas Day. This condition and other problems continued to bother her.

In February she went into the hospital for observation and tests. She was there for about a week. She came home but was very weak. Visiting nurses came into help care for her.

Home John built for Gertrude.
Final Home - 1710 Prairie du Chien Rd.

Also the family took turns helping out or staying the night. A lady came in to help her get ready for the night and another stayed overnight with her. Gertrude had been home about three weeks when she became very ill and had to be taken to the hospital by ambulance.

All was done that could possibly be done to make her comfortable. Louise and Lawrence came from Florida to see her. Later she was transferred by ambulance to Atrium Village at Hills. Eleven days later she passed away on April 16, 1983.

Her funeral was held on April 19 with a high Mass celebrated by Rev. Henry Grainer. Eight grandsons were pallbearers. Grandchildren and great-grandchildren did the readings, brought up the gifts, distributed communion, and sang. Five other priests were present.

Burial was beside John at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in West Liberty. Rev. John Morrissey conducted the burial rites. A lovely dinner was served by the ladies of St. Mary's in their hall.

Gertrude was survived by 15 children, 59 grandchildren, 63 great-grandchildren one great-great-grandchild, and two sisters.