Berthella Pedersen

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Berthella “Bertie” Pedersen (Stevens) at Chinook Regional Hospital on January 18, 2018 at the age of 95 years. Berthella is survived by two daughters, Dianne (Mike) Violini and Brenda (Tim) Bell; two grandsons, Matthew and Carson Bell; sister, Audrey (Doran) Johnson; sister-in-law, Stephany Stevens and several nieces and nephews. 

She was predeceased by her husband, Stephen “Steve” Pedersen; parents, Clostin and Viva Stevens (Summers); brothers, Donald, Claire and Stanley Stevens; father and mother in-law, Carl and Alice Pedersen; brothers-in-law, Tom Hackman and Bill Pedersen; and sisters-in-law, Florence McArthur, Mary Stevens and Agnes Miles.

Born on April 30, 1922 in Erskine, Alberta, Berthella was part of a musical family.  She began piano lessons at an early age, followed by playing in her brothers’ dance bands in her teen years.  In 1942 she moved to Lethbridge to enter a pre-nursing program at St. Michael’s Hospital.  Although she thoroughly enjoyed two years of nursing training, she met her future husband and opted for marriage instead.  On June 7, 1944, she and Steve Pedersen were married in Stettler, Alberta.  Her great love of children and music soon lured her back into teaching piano, an occupation which she continued for 50 years until retiring in 2003.

            Bertie was an avid gardener, winning numerous awards.  Her creative flair was evident in the many hobbies she enjoyed which included cake and cookie decorating, flower arranging, sewing and baking.  No one could bake a pie like Bertie!  Her elaborately decorated cookies are fondly remembered by many.  She also loved to travel and ‘see the world’ with friends and family.  Bertie was a former member of the Writers’ Workshop, Lethbridge Horticultural Society, Lethbridge Historical Society, a life member of the U.C.W. of First United Church, and Past Matron of Laurel Chapter No. 43, Order of the Eastern Star.

            Bertie will always be remembered for her kindness, love of children, sense of humour and strength of character.  Many years of service to her church and community reflected her desire to reach out and help others. She adored her family and cherished the time she spent with her grandsons. The sharing of fond memories will forever bring a smile to those left behind.  We are so blessed to have loved her and been loved by her. She will be forever remembered, loved and cherished. 

A heartfelt thank you to the many friends who enriched her life, and the caregivers and medical staff for their exceptional care.   For those who wish, donations may be made in Bertie’s memory to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or a charity of choice.  A memorial service will be held at McKillop United Church (2329 - 15 Ave. South, Lethbridge) on Monday, February 12, 2018 at 1:00 p.m.  

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