Shirley Ann Bertsch

Shirley Ann Bertsch, born on August 20, 1943, in Parkston, South Dakota, grew up on her family’s farm. She attended a country school in Garfield Township before graduating from Parkston High School in 1961. After high school, she pursued an associate degree in business at Nettleton Business College in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. 

Shirley’s career began at Northwest National Bank, where she served as the executive assistant to the Vice President. 

Her Christian faith played a significant role in her life. She was a devoted member of St. John’s Lutheran Church, where she taught Sunday school, sang in the choir, and participated in the Luther League. Since moving to Kansas City, both Shirley and Jim have been members of Timothy Lutheran Church in Blue Springs. 

On August 5, 1967, Shirley married Jim Bertsch. Jim often joked that he either “married up” or that Shirley had “lowered her standards.” They were blessed with a son, Bryan, born in 1969. Shirley dedicated herself to being a stay-at-home mother, faithfully attending her son’s sporting events and family activities. 

Later in her career, Shirley worked for the State of Missouri as the executive assistant to the Director of Family Services. She retired in 2005. Shirley enjoyed traveling, particularly cruises, with a memorable experience being a river cruise through Germany in 2017. 

Bryan and Peggy Brown met during their college years and were married in 1995. In 2004, they were blessed with twin grandsons, Brady and Brandon, who quickly became the center of Shirley’s life. This year, Jim and Shirley celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary in August. 

Shirley was an avid sports fan, following The Chiefs, Royals, and Dallas Cowboys. She also enjoyed bowling and had the proud accomplishment of her team winning a tournament in Las Vegas. 

Shirley is survived by her husband, Jim; her son, Bryan; her daughter-in-law, Peggy; her grandsons, Brady and Brandon; nine nephews; and three nieces. She was preceded in death by her parents, Herbert and Minnie Gerlach, her brother Stan, and her sister Arlene. 

Shirley will be deeply missed by many. Her unwavering devotion to her family, her faith, and her friends will not be forgotten and will be long remembered. 

A memorial service will be held at Speaks Chapel in Independence, MO, on Thursday, January 15th, at 2 pm. There will be a visitation prior to the service from 1-2pm in the chapel. A private family burial will take place at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Higginsville, Missouri. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Wayside Waifs, a no-kill animal shelter located locally in Kansas City, MO. Shirley had a deep love for animals, and the shelter held a special place in her heart.