Bernice Gertsch

Bernice "Bobbie" Gertsch, born on June 17, 1929, in Longmont, Colorado, passed away peacefully on October 8 2024, at the Davis Hospice Center in Cheyenne, Wyoming, leaving behind a legacy of love, service and an indomitable spirit.

Bobbie was not just a beloved mother and grandmother but also a beacon of hope and compassion for many. Her unwavering dedication to her community and especially to veterans exemplified her loving nature. As a volunteer with the American Legion Auxiliary, Unit 6, she immersed herself fully in various leadership roles, tirelessly working to uplift the spirits of those who served our country. It was common to find Bobbie at the VA Medical Center, distributing cookies and coffee to patients and visitors, walking countless miles down hospital halls, and organizing birthday and holiday celebrations.

Through her efforts, Bobbie amassed over 10,000 hours of volunteer service, a testament to her selfless contribution, which awarded her a memorial bench on the VA grounds near Volunteer Services. A gentle soul dedicated to nurturing others, she found immense joy in her role as a teaching assistant, helping young children flourish in their education.

Bobbie is survived by her loving daughters, Dixie Hammer of Colorado Springs and Diana Pick of Phoenix, Arizona, and Marvin (M.J.) Gertsch (Tamara) of Cheyenne, Wyoming) whose hearts will forever cherish her guidance and love. She was also blessed with grandchildren Kelli Gertsch Matthies (Jason) of Newbury Park, California; Greg Pick of Phoenix, Arizona; and Ryan Gertsch (Lisa) of Cheyenne. Her legacy of love continues with four great-grandchildren, Camden and Rachel Gertsch; Ian and Alexandria Matthies, and many nieces and nephews, each of whom carries a piece of her spirit within them.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Marvin Gertsch, Sr., and a lineage of family, including her father, John Sheeley, and mother, Alice Burns. She was also preceded in death by her sister, Beth McCullough (George), a brother, Jack Burns (Pat), and beloved grandchildren Michael (Mickey) Hammer and Alisha Pick Cortez.

Bobbie's impact on those around her will not be forgotten. Her warmth, compassion, and unwavering dedication to service inspired many, and she leaves behind a community that will forever be enriched by her presence and love. A memorial service to honor her remarkable life will be held on October 23, 2024, at 1:00 PM at the Schrader, Aragon and Jacoby Funeral Home in Cheyenne, Wyoming with a reception to follow. A private interment will be held at a later date in Longmont, CO. As we gather to celebrate her life, let us carry forward her legacy of kindness and selflessness that touched so many hearts.

In lieu of flowers we ask that you consider a donation to the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 6 or the Cheyenne Animal Shelter in Bobbie's memory.