Vic Bertrand, born June 11, 1946, in New Jersey, passed away on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at the age of 79.
He moved to Chula Vista at a young age with his father, Jiles “Bert” Bertrand, and his mother, Helen Bertrand. It was there that his brother, Dave Bertrand, was born. Vic attended Chula Vista High School and became part of the first graduating class of Castle Park High School in 1964.
Vic began his career in the maintenance department at Vista Hill Hospital, where he met his future wife, Vickie. The couple married in 1965 and shared 60 loving years together. Like many in the Chula Vista area, Vic went on to work at Rohr Aerospace before pursuing his lifelong passion for cars. He became a skilled mechanic, working for multiple Chevrolet, Buick, and other GM dealerships throughout San Diego County. During this time, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and served his country before returning to his career as a mechanic.
In 1969, Vic and Vickie welcomed their daughter, Sandra “Sandy” Schrader (née Bertrand). Their son, Brian Bertrand, was born in 1972. After many years as a mechanic, Vic joined the Coca-Cola Bottling Company, where he dedicated over 30 years of service.
Vic was known for his love of the outdoors and adventure. He created countless cherished memories for his family by taking them to the desert on motorcycles, three-wheelers, ATVs, and buggies, camping in RVs, and embracing life to the fullest. These traditions of desert adventures and family camping continue today through his children and grandchildren.
Vic is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Vickie Bertrand; his daughter, Sandy Schrader and her husband, Luke, along with their children, Zachary and Alyssa; and his son, Brian Bertrand and his wife, Rita, along with their children, Brianna and Kaitlin. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jiles “Bert” Bertrand and Helen Bertrand, and his brother, Dave Bertrand.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a date to be announced.