George C. Bertrand

George Bertand, 83, New Hartford, NY, formerly of North Washington Street, Herkimer, passed to his next life’s journey, on Tuesday April 30, 2024 with his family by his side.  

Born to John A. Bertrand, Blanche Kinsley in Watertown NY, May 15,1940, George graduated from West Canada School while tending to his family’s farm in Poland, NY, where he met and married Carol Moran and enjoyed 26 years together.  George was employed full time as a gas and electrical planner for Niagara Mohawk, what is now National Grid, for 44 years.  George was also active in the community as a member of the Knights of Columbus, the Masons, and was also instrumental in the establishment of MOVAC center in Herkimer where he worked part time as an EMT.  Also an active member of the Boy Scouts of America, Leatherstocking Council, Leadership Group.  

He later remarried, and went on to travel the world, renovate houses for others to have a better home, and spent many holidays and time with his family and friends. One most notable friend, Mr. Richard Ellsenbeck, to whom they shared many laughs and a great enduring friendship, as they seemed two men cut from the same cloth in both work ethic and approach to happiness.  

Survived by his five children- John (Karen) Bertrand, New Hartford, NY, Collene (Keith) Cool, Schyler, NY, Marlene Burch, San Antonio TX, Lorene (Dave) Bass Herkimer NY, Tim (Dawn) Bertrand, Apex NC, and 10 grandchildren.  George is predeceased by his first wife, Carol Moran Bertrand, and second wife Lydia Bertrand.

A very spiritual man who knew that time on earth was short, and that he would return once from which he came, he attended mass weekly seeking peace in a higher power.  George was a devoted husband, father, known for his unwavering kindness, and selflessness. He was a pillar of strength and wisdom, as he raised five adoring children who were a great pride and joy for him, and him for them.  To his family, his guidance, love, and unconditional support were his greatest attributes, and his compassion to all creatures was a model for all to follow.

Known for his quick wit, fearless willingness to take on and solve just about any problem, combined with his ability to fix just about anything, George’s legacy will continue through his children and grandchildren, and all the lives he touched.  Though he may be gone, his spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His legacy of love and compassion will forever be remembered. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.  

A very special thank you to the wonderful caregiving staff and administration of the Presbyterian Home, New Hartford, NY.  Their care, patience, understanding, and genuine love for George, whom they called ‘old blue eyes’, during his time of need, was seemingly without end.  Services will be a celebration of life at a later date.  Mr. Bertrand's funeral arrangements are under the direction and compassionate care of the locally/family owned Mohawk Valley Funerals and Cremations, 7507 State Route 5, between Little Falls and St. Johnsville, 315-508-5131.