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Donald McLeod Bertram
1955 - 2023
Donald McLeod Bertram
1955 - 2023
Obituary
Guest Book
Donald Bertram Obituary
Donald "Don" McLeod Bertram passed away suddenly on Sunday, March 5th, 2023 at the age of 68.
Beloved husband for 45 years of Nancy Bertram (nee Hecker); devoted father of Jason Bertram and Jeffrey Bertram (Mamie); loving grandfather of Amelia; dear brother of Ruth Laird, Bob Bertram (Linda) and Jim Bertram (Lynn); cousin of Carol Jepperson (Tom), Joan Madsen (Richard) and Marcia Ollinger (Henry); and 12 nieces and nephews.
Don was born in Saint Louis, MO on February 20, 1955 to Donald and Mary Lou (Stubbs) Bertram. He graduated from Kirkwood High School and lettered in both basketball and football. He was a proud member of the 1972 and 1973 Kirkwood basketball teams with a 58-3 winning record, and appeared in two state finals. Don also achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. He received a B.A. in Broadcast Journalism with high honors, and minors in Education and Communications, from the University of Tulsa.
Don married his high school sweetheart in 1977, and after college he and Nancy moved to New Orleans where their two sons were born. In 1988 they moved back to St. Louis where the family resides today. Don's career included production and project management, and leadership training, for WWL-TV, Maritz, and East Central College. He also provided customized training for companies as a contract trainer.
Don's greatest source of pride and joy was being a father, and recently a grandfather. He reveled in watching Jason and Jeff excel in sports during their school years and stayed actively involved through coaching many of their teams. Don loved nothing more than watching his sons play golf on family vacations to Pebble Beach, St. Andrews, Pinehurst, Kapalua and TPC Sawgrass. With a desire to give back to the sports community, he became a youth basketball referee in later years.
Don liked to fish, snow ski and go to the beach. He was also happy being home and watching the St. Louis Cardinals, grilling for the family, or walking his yellow lab, Sandi, at Castlewood Park. He loved cooking and was known for his homemade vegetable soup, gumbo and jambalaya being favorites.
Don's uncommon kindness shined through his everyday actions with loved ones and friends. Don gave from his heart until the end with his final act of being an organ donor.
Services: Remembrance will be held at the SCHRADER Funeral Home, 14960 Manchester Road at Holloway Road, Ballwin, Sunday, March 12, 2023 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Memorial contributions can be made to Chesterfield Baseball & Softball Association: PO Box 991, Chesterfield, MO 63006 or The Crossing Church: 114 N Eatherton Road, Chesterfield, MO 63005. Friends may sign the family's on-line guestbook at Schrader.com.
Megan Schammel
March 25, 2023
I was Don’s hairstylist for about eight years. He came into my Salon one day and the rest was history. He was one of a kind. The sweetest person to everyone. He lit up a room with his presence. We had the best conversations when he was in my chair. Always so nice and always talked so highly of his family, it made you feel like you knew them personally. He would always sent me a text the day after a haircut and thank me and tell me how much he appreciated me. I will miss him dearly in my chair. I’m so thankful he came into my life. You were one of a kind don. You were love. Say hi to my dad for me. ❤❤❤
Leslie Gromadzki (Kizer)
March 15, 2023
So sorry to hear of Don’s passing. Great friend from high school & even shared the same birthday. Would run into him from time to time around town & always so warm & friendly. Had the best smile. Heartfelt condolences to his entire family❤
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Kris Martin
March 14, 2023
My condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Bertram. I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Prayers and well wishes to you all.
Becky Voss Gettings
March 13, 2023
Don was a friend of mine from Kirkwood High School class of '73. I remember him most as a valued member of our successful basketball team. Even more importantly, he was a kind, smart and generous person. I have heard nothing but wonderful things about his wife Nancy and their family. So sad that his life was cut short. You lived it well, Don. Becky Voss Gettings
Kathryn & Rick Voskuil
March 13, 2023
Dear Nancy and Family,
My husband Rick Voskuil lived on Woodside Drive with Donny. (That's how Rick has always referred to him). Don wrote the sweetest condolence note when Rick's mother, Peggy, passed away 6 years ago. His dad and Peggy had a special friendship at Cape Albeon and we are so grateful for their serendipitous meeting after having lived on the same street when the "boys" were young. We are so very sorry for your loss. Rick has Alzheimer's and we had planned on coming to the visitation, but he became very emotional. I told him I would offer our sincere condolences and thank you for your kindness to his mom and to us.
We wish you peace through this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Rick and Kathryn Voskuil
Beverly Pruett
March 12, 2023
I am so sorry for your loss. I worked with Don and Jeff at the Westport Hotels. Don was such a nice man always greeted everyone with a smile. Prayers to the family.
Hanna and Ben Heintz
March 11, 2023
Uncle Don will always be remembered for his warm spirit, his enormous heart, his faith in God, and his service to others. The world is a better place for all the light and love he gave to everyone around him. We love you and will miss you, Uncle Don!
Love,
Hanna and Be.
Lois Sellers
March 11, 2023
I worked with don at express valet cleaners he will be missed
Debby Breeden
March 11, 2023
I had the great pleasure of working with Don at Maritz and later as my boss at East Central College. We kept in contact over the years as we moved on to other jobs, but not often enough. The last I saw him in person was at my nephew's funeral in Oct. 2017. He came to support me at a very sad time. We did, however, keep in touch via email and phone calls. I will forever keep your kindness, laughter and smile in my heart. Spread your wings and fly high dear friend!
A special time shared on Maui.
Joanie Madsen
March 10, 2023
So grateful for Don’s presence in my life. Born one day apart created a special bond between us for sixty-eight years. He leaves a legacy of love that is palpable and never did one wonder how he felt as he shared without hesitation. Don’s involvement and care were always felt. Our family will remember him well when we eat a delicious meal and enjoy a good laugh. Tender loving care to Nancy, Jason, Jeff, Ruthie, Bob, Jim and his extended family.
Rhein Dabler
March 10, 2023
Nancy,
I was so happy to have been with Don last month and recall our glory days on the court.
I don't have the words to take away your pain. I can only hope that you can receive comfort from knowing how many of us share your sorrow.
Take comfort everywhere you can.
Love, Rhein
Jane Fetick
March 10, 2023
I’m so sorry for your loss. I always remember Don smiling
eunice and jim hecker
March 10, 2023
don you have been a part of our family since you and nancy were in h.s. when you stopped to see us on your way home from kirkwood park (even when you two weren"t dating). love, eunice & jim
Carol McLerkin Bronson
March 9, 2023
I hope you and you family will find peace in the memories you share.
Bill Burton
March 9, 2023
A wonderful gentleman and a charter member of the Maritz Killer Bs (a large and fun contingent of department co-workers whose last names all started with B). Always enjoyed your company and interest in sports. A wonderful co-worker and gentleman. Blessings to the Bertram family and condolences for your loss. Too soon.
Susan Van Ness
March 9, 2023
Don had an infectious smile and endless optimism. Just thinking of him brightens my day. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
Cardinal nature & baseball fan
Jamie Prost
March 9, 2023
STL family celebration with food
Jamie Prost
March 9, 2023
Proud Mizzou Uncle ( & Dad!!!)
Jamie Prost
March 9, 2023
Jamie Prost
March 9, 2023
Don was an amazing man who meant so much to so many....and especially he was a wonderful brother-in-law and uncle to us always with his loving support, dry humor, yummy food, welcoming home hospitality, & athletic abilities; he gave to others each day of his life and let us know how much he cared. There was only one Don like him that will be remembered forever. XOXOX
Jeremy Reiland
March 9, 2023
May love and prayers and gracious thoughts surround you during this time. Your Vantage Point Financial Team has you in our thoughts and prayers. Don will be missed.
Vantage Point Financial,
Jeremy Reiland
Susan Reis (Stice)
March 9, 2023
So kind, easy-going and funny, I remember Don well from Kirkwood High. My heart goes out to Nancy and all of his family...may God comfort you and hold you tightly in His arms, giving you peace and solace.
Cindy and Bill Marston
March 9, 2023
We remember Don from our days with the Barons, and we are so very sorry to hear of his passing. We are sending prayers of peace and comfort to your family.
Ian Bailey
March 9, 2023
Don was a great family guy and was always welcoming and warm every time I met him. His loving family supported his passion for sport and he was so proud of his boys and their achievements. I enjoyed a couple of BBQ's at his home and he loved to grill, with the fridge stocked with plenty of beers ! It was a privilege to have been able to call him a 'friend' and he will be greatly missed by all that knew him. My heart goes out to Nancy and the boys and all family and friends.
Rest in Peace
Kathleen Lastarria
March 9, 2023
My deepest condolences to Don's family for their tremendous loss. I worked with Don at Maritz (closely on the Ford Motor Company account) and knew no one who was a better gentleman - and gentle man - than Don. Every memory of that time brings respect for his kindness and gratitude for his talented help - he was a treasure in every way. I wish his family comfort and peace.
Teri and Wil Glidewell
March 9, 2023
Our hearts break for your loss Nancy, Jason and Jeff. Wil and I thought the world of Don. He was never without a smile and always had a positive outlook on life. Don had a gentleness and kindness that exuded from him. We were blessed to have known him and benefited greatly from his friendship. You will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers.
Thomas Redmond
March 9, 2023
Nancy, Jason, Jeff and to all family members! My heart aches for you! Please accept my sincere sympathy and prayers during this impossible and difficult time. Wow, Don sure led a Christ like life.always serving others first. His constant thoughtfulness and kindness for others.a true Blessing. I can only hope and pray that his love for you Nancy and Jason and Jeff, will help to get you through the days, weeks, months and years ahead!
Peace, Love and Prayers!
Tom Redmond
The Heintz-Joehnk Family
March 8, 2023
A fun, kind, warm and welcoming gentleman who would light up the room.
Nancy, Jeff, Jason, and extended family - you are all in our thoughts and prayers. Wishing you peace and healing.
Love,
The Heintz-Joehnk Family
Kirsten Prost
March 8, 2023
I was blessed to call Don my uncle. The Bertrams are a second family to me and I've been lucky to spend a lot of time visiting Don, Nancy, Jason, and Jeff growing up. Whenever we would visit, Uncle Don would always make sure all of the essentials were stocked - coffee cake, ice cream, soda, and cook the most delicious meals. Don had a knack for making everyone feel at home. He will continue to live on in my life and the lives of everyone that he touched. My prayers are with the entire Bertram family during this difficult time.
Donald Edwards
March 8, 2023
Thanks for the many memories playing basketball with you. Your smile and words of encouragement I remember well
The fun time we had at practices.
Don"CID"Edwards
Zack Forister
March 8, 2023
Mr Bertram was one of the kindest people I have ever met. He was kind enough to offer and give me a glowing letter of recommendation when I was changing careers. The Bertram's were like family to my Aunt Vivian (RIP) and neighbors of my parents. My deepest condolences to Nancy and Family. If there is anything I can do, just let me know.
Robert & Patty Riggs
March 8, 2023
So sorry. Thoughts and prayers to the family. Robert Riggs his wife Patty white both KHS 1973 graduates
William Bonsack
March 8, 2023
From the old neighborhood, times seem to have stood still. How I remember Don, going through school and the Boy Scouts. The times spent at the Bertram household in the old neighborhood were priceless. I would like to thank all of the Bertram's for sharing Don with us. Those memories will never fade. May God continue to bless all of you and know that you will never walk alone.
Kitsch Family
March 8, 2023
Nancy, Jeff, and Jason, So Sorry to Hear of Your Loss. We Have Great Memories of Don from All of Our Baseball Games Together as a Part of the Baron’s Baseball Family. He Was a Wonderful Man and a Great Inspiration to All Who Knew Him. Gone too soon. Thoughts and Prayers to You All.
Bob, Cathy, and Kyle Kitsch
Gordon Hartwig
March 8, 2023
My man, Bert once a pioneer, always a pioneer we all remember those football and basketball games between the third and fourth quarter of Bball “Down To The River” chant kept us all going condolences to your entire family. Be safe in your travels to eternity God Bless &prayers be with you and your family
March 8, 2023
So very sorry to hear of Don’s untimely passing. Our sincere condolences go out to his family. Tom & Joellyn VonDeBur
Drew Rogers
March 8, 2023
From our childhood friendship and throughout his life, Don was always an enthusiast, bringing such positive energy to everyone around him.
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14960 Manchester Road, Ballwin, MO 63011
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