JACKIE BERTOLINO

Jackie Kemper Bertolino We celebrate the life of Jackie Kemper Bertolino, who passed away on January 26, 2011. Born June 11, 1930 to Bill and Alma Kemper, Jackie enjoyed an adventurous childhood. She told colorful stories of her cousins, playing pranks on big brother Billy, learning life lessons from her Italian grandmother, and growing up with a menagerie of animals at the Kemper place in Milton. Graduating from Fife High School (1948) and Eastern Washington College in Pullman with a degree in police science (1952), Jackie worked in a crime lab and as a Boeing draftsperson. She married Montana native Pete and raised four children on their Montana family farm. Jackie owned a Conoco station and delivered bulk fuel to area ranchers in her faithful gas truck. Jackie returned to the Milton family home in 1986. She enjoyed spending time with her original neighbors, being active in local politics, and hosting an annual Campanoli/Kemper family reunion. She and Bill, her brother and best friend, partnered in building rental houses in Milton. Jackie designed, acted as general contractor, and managed these properties throughout her "retirement." Many of her tenants became her extended family. She discovered a latent skill in oil painting. Jackie delighted in visitors to her Kemper family home; she was always ready to share a cup of coffee, bit of advice, or a good story. Jackie's children are Elta (Mike) Ayre, Cheryl Burows, Peter J. (Marian) Bertolino, and Gina Bertolino; with 9 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. Memorials may be sent to a charity of choice or to the Roberts Community Foundation, Box 284, Roberts, MT 59070. Jackie lived fully and joyously, opening her heart and life to so many people. She remains an inspiration to us all.