Beloved Husband, Dad, and Grandpa
Richard R. Bertram, 69, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 1 with family by his side. His devotion to family and his firm belief in God supported him in his struggle and ultimately gave him peace.
Dick was born to the late Roy and Bernice Bertram, in Milwaukee, WI on September 19, 1945. He graduated from Wauwatosa High School and served in the United States Naval Reserves. In 1967, he married Barbara Frey, his beloved wife for 47 years. They were blessed with two children, Jim and Dan. Dick spent his career with Pepsi Cola and retired in 1997, which allowed him more time with Barbara, Jim and Dan, and his four grandchildren. Long known for his positive outlook on life and sense of humor, Dick spent his summers with Barbara on the lake in McNaughton, WI, and winters in Scottsdale, Arizona. Together, they enjoyed the many friends and family who spent time with them there. An avid golfer, Dick shared his passion for the game with this son, Dan, playing together any chance they could. Dick also enjoyed fishing and hunting with his son, Jim, and looked forward to their fishing trips to Canada. Dick was a dedicated grandpa to Jim’s sons, Richard and Christopher, and Dan’s daughters, Reese and Stella. He was frequently seen working on crafts with the girls, fishing with the boys, and engaging in their life events with pride. Dick spent many hours clearing a forest trail for his famous golf cart rides, which included a ride down “Scream Hill”.
Dick is survived by his wife, Barbara; his son, Dan, daughter-in-laws, Kate and Maria, and grandchildren, Richard, Christopher, Reese, and Stella, Brother-in-law Bill Frey (Kathy), sister-in-law Sarah Bertram, many nieces and nephews, and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Bernice, brother, John, and his beloved son, Jim.
The family would like to thank the outpouring of love from family and friends, the oncology staff in Wisconsin and Arizona for their constant and attentive treatment.
Visitation Friday, May 8 from 1:00pm until time of Service at 3:00pm at WISCONSIN MEMORIAL PARK-CHAPEL OF THE CHIMES, 13235 W. Capitol Drive, Brookfield with entombment to follow at the Garden of Eternal Life.
In lieu of flowers please support: Fort Wilderness Ministries PO Box 715 McNaughton, WI 54543 or American Cancer Society Hope Lodge Program 611 W. Doege Street, Marshfield, WI 54449-1925.