Gertie and her siblings and I and all my siblings at the time went to school together at Lavender School west of Bowsman, Manitoba, from 1947 to 1954. It was a 1-room school with grades 1 - 8 all taught by a single teacher, and we all walked to school from our farmhouses down the various gravel or dirt roads, and then continued on with playing after school at each other's houses, usually outside regardless of the weather. I remember Gertie as a tomboy, liking sports and outside games and adventures. I'm sorry to hear of her death and send my regards to her family. Maxine Lutz (nee Hofford)

Our family spent 38 years as neighbours, many more years than that as friends, Albert and Gerty were the reason we moved to TP! Our 4 boys and Albert and Gerty's 4 boys along with Raelyn grew up together, many happy times just hanging out, exciting times, tobogganing on the Pinnacle , hunting trips, sledding, quadding, hazardous times, canoes bent "L" shape, jeeps rolled end over end, a board smack between the eyes herding cattle, sleds breaking down and the guys leaving Julie in the bush on her own at midnight or worse, not to mention a missing digit here and a missing digit there, and so much more that has never been disclosed! Our house was different than Gerty's , this mom did not allow their muddy boots or barn clothes past the back door, so more often they hung out at the farm where there was a more "relaxed" atmosphere and very often fresh baked bread. No wonder she really didn't know how many kids she had at any given time. Gerty was a great friend and neighbour my most special memory being the Sat evening we came home to our newest keep busy retirement scheme, 13 goats --that our dogs were playing rough with while we were away -- 2 were dead and 8 desperately needed patching. I tried the vets and no one would come. Gerty called Dr Will but he was in Dawson Creek and his advice, "Gerty , those goats will be in shock take your sewing kit over there and sew them up they won't feel a thing" so I held and disinfected and Gerty sewed them up we didn't lose anymore. There was not a community plea for help that she didn't answer if she could! There wasn't anything she wouldn't give a try if she thought it worth pursuing. We have lost a great friend that I truly don't believe we ever appreciated as much as we should have, because she was simply just herself with a deep love of those close to her, asking nothing in return and expecting nothing from anyone but a smile and a good laugh. We will miss her calls and her positive energy! Love and Hugs to all of you Kids, Kids in law & Grand kids. Still won't let you wear your boots in but you our door is open to you and all are welcome to come reminisce anytime, Keep in touch! Don and Nancy

My condolences to Gerty's Family - she was a lovely lady and over the past few years we shared many interesting stories regarding our interest in raising sheep as well as stories of life in general - she will be missed. Susan Blue Clarke

I remember Gertie as a committed parent who faithfully attended every Parent-Teacher Evening at Bezanson School. She was a good listener but always had insights and relevant suggestions to offer too. I enjoyed talking on a variety of subjects with Gertie and was always impressed with her wide range of knowledge and educated opinions. She will be sadly missed. My heartfelt condolences to the family she leaves behind. Maxine Maxwell

As a boy I got to know Gerti and Albert and Alberts mom and dad, many a Sunday over at Tom,s and family for Sunday meetings. And the lunch was always the best. Rest In Peace Gerti. Leslie Braun Before going back to my last name. Les. Dzwonkiewicz

Gertie was a wonderful friend. Loved our phone chats and this city girl learned alot about farming. She always had a story, about farm, grandkids or growing up when young, and her stories always ended with her laugh. She thought outside the box and had some new idea, invention to share. Will miss you. Glad you had peace in your heart. Love to all family mourning. Joan taylor