Martha Kristin "Kris" Bertus

Martha Kristin "Kris" Bertus passed away on March 28, 2026. Kris was born April 5, 1949 to Harry and Mona Steiner (Olson) in Waterloo, IA. She spent her growing up years in Marshall Town, IA and later Colorado Springs, CO..

As a teen, Kris attended a Billy Graham crusade. It was there her life was eternally changed when she chose to proclaim Christ as her Lord and Savior. The Lord directed her steps from that day forward.
When she chose to pursue her degree in education, Kris moved to Sioux Falls, SD to attend Augustana College. It was in Sioux Falls where she met Jerre. They were set up by Jerre's sister, who was a friend of Kris'. They endured a year of long distance dating while Jerre attended college 5 hours away in the Black Hills. The times spent together were filled with card games and long walks. They were united in marriage on June 7, 1980. Kris and Jerre enjoyed 45 blessed years together. Their example of a godly, Christ-centered marriage will continue to be a testament to many.
Kris' life was one of love – love for Jesus and a love for people. Kris spent a total of 30 plus years as a teacher, and touched many lives because of her strong sense of love and devotion for her students and their families, and to her fellow educators. Her time as a first grade teacher at Renberg Elementary was the most significant of her career. Many of the relationships established there lasted her lifetime.
A love for others was also apparent in Kris' favorite way to connect: coffee dates. She had a passion for pouring into the lives of others by the simple act of having a cup of coffee with them. Whether it was hosting a small group of friends in her home or going to a favorite coffee shop, Kris knew how to connect in a meaningful and powerful way. And so often she had the honor of showing people the love of Christ in these moments.
Kris' love of family was the most significant of all. As a wife, mother, mother-in-law, and grandma (AKA "Marmee"), etc. she was beyond compare.Her family experienced the gift of her love in many ways. Her time with her granddaughters is an example of this. She always set aside moments to be one-on-one in a favorite activity with each granddaughter during the near weekly overnights. Additionally, she said "I love you" regularly, both in words and action. Kris spoke or texted words of encouragement often and was quick to tell you "I'm lifting you up in prayer." She gave little gifts frequently, especially to her daughter, just because. Even the sweet banter between Kris and her son-in-law was an expression of love. Kris gave grace, patience, and understanding with an open hand. The work of her Heavenly father in her life was evidenced in these everyday acts and habits.
Kris was a force of nature whose genuine warmth, hospitality, and kindness overflowed to everyone that she met. She will be missed by many and loved forever. Her life will be remembered as one lived well.
Kris was preceded in death by her parents, Harry and Mona Steiner (Olson); her step-father Harold Olson. She is survived by her beloved husband of 45 years, Jerre Bertus; her daughter, Molly Gurule, and her husband Joel; her cherished granddaughters, Nadia and Talia; her siblings, Steve Steiner and his wife Jeanne, Leanne Hesselberg and her husband Steve, and Mike Olson and his wife Shirley; as well as many other in-laws, nieces, nephews, and dear friends.