Richard "Rich" Bertsch

Aber- deen: Memorial service for Richard “Rich” Bertsch, 56, Aberdeen, will be 11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2011, at Spitzer-Miller Funeral Home, 1111 S. Main St. Dr. Harold E. Salem will officiate. Rich died unexpectedly Sunday, Jan. 2, 2011, at his home in Aberdeen.

Richard Allen Bertsch, son of Herbert and Ruth (Stroh) Bertsch, was born on July 19, 1954, in Mason City, Iowa. Following the death of his mother, he moved with his family at a young age, settling in Aberdeen, where he was raised by his father and stepmother, Ramona (Wolff) Bertsch. Rich went on to graduate from Aberdeen Central High School.

Rich was united in marriage to Penny Olson. To this union, three children, Nathan, Ian and Jessica, were born. The family made its home in Aberdeen. Rich began working for 3M in Aberdeen in 1977 where he remained working until the time of his death.

Rich enjoyed camping and antiques. In his free time, he liked to restore old furniture. Rich loved flower arranging and decorating. He also cherished the times he was able to spend with his family, especially his grandchildren.

Grateful for having shared Rich's life are his children, Nathan (Kirsten) Bertsch of Aberdeen, Ian (Nichole) Bertsch of Pierpont, S.D., and Jessica Bertsch of Webster; grandchildren, Chris Allbee, Olivia and Jozie Bertsch and Mathew Ash; siblings, Judy Pahl, Joyce Lemer, Kathy (Kenny) Jones, Jeff (Arleen) Bertsch, Tim (Nettie) Bertsch, Deb (Roy) Roebuck, Pam Bertsch, Terry Bertsch and Dawn Bertsch.

Rich was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Ruth Bertsch; stepmother, Ramona Wolff; and stepsister, Gail Dilger.

Honorary urn bearers will be all of Rich's grandchildren.

Spitzer-Miller Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

www.spitzer funeralhome.com

This obituary was originally published in the Aberdeen American News.