Gertrude Kerbel

Gertrude Alice Kerbel, born April 25, 1924, passed from this life peacefully on February 15, 2011. Gertrude and husband Albert were both born in Fort Collins, Colorado and lived there until Albert’s death in 2002. They loved the mountains. Fishing in Cache la Poudre River was among their great pleasures on this earth. They taught the love of nature to their children and grandchildren. Following Albert’s passing Gertrude moved to Aztec to be near her daughter, Sandy, where she made many friends and enjoyed the graciousness of the Aztec community. Gertrude was a life long member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows as a Rebecca and always lived their motto of Friendship, Love and Truth. Gertrude was predeceased by husband Albert who died just months short of their 60th wedding anniversary. Gertrude was the youngest of seven children born to Delva and Fender McGuire and the last to depart, so ends an era that spanned the great depression into the space and technology age. Two sons also went before them, infant David and Rocky Cliff. She is survived by Robert Alan Kerbel (Dorothy) of Amarillo, TX; Dusty Dale Kerbel (Susan) of Broomfield, CO; and Sandy Williams (Ron) of Flora Vista, NM in addition to many grand and great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and her beloved cat, Patches. Gertrude was a talented woman who continued to paint even after her eyesight failed. She crocheted and embroidered fine pieces that won multiple ribbons for her at the San Juan County Fair, including two Best of Show grand awards. She also crocheted numerous blankets for the Red Cross, saying that the people in distress needed more than something warm, they deserved something beautiful. Many friends and relatives are recipients of her fine work and her memory will live on through her soft touch. Gertrude will be interred in Fort Collins with Albert and David at a later date. The family requests that in lieu of flowers donations be made to the Aztec Animal Shelter, 825 East Sabena, Aztec, NM 87410.