Bertha Ficken, 73, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 26, 2024, with her family holding her hands. Known for her sass and fierce love for her grandchildren, Bertha was a devoted advocate and cherished every moment spent with her beloved family.
Bertha was married to the love of her life and high school sweetheart, Max, for 54 wonderful years. Their love story instilled strong values in their children and showed them the perfect example of how amazing a marriage should be. Max and Bertha spent the last 13 years, side by side, enjoying their retirement. Bertha’s children say Max should be hailed a hero for never complaining that he had to go shopping with their mother every day. Literally, every, single day…. but never after dark, because when it was dark it was time to be home. Her dedication to her family was unwavering. Her nurturing spirit and boundless affection will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Bertha raised two independent and strong-willed daughters, Jennifer Brown and Rebecca Brewer. Justin Brown, Bertha’s son-in-law, always held a special place in her heart, and she thought of him as the son she never had. When Justin & Jennifer married, Bertha was excited to add another granddaughter, Rachel Lacy. When the girls were fortunate enough to have children of their own, Bertha was the first in line to help her daughters take care of their children, Scout, McKrae, Macy, and Piper. “I love you more than all the stars in the sky, and the sand on the beaches”, and “I love you more than a hog loves slop” were words her grandchildren never left her house without hearing. Jennifer and Rebecca always said that the only thing better than having Bertha for a mom, was their children have her for a meme.
Bertha also cherished time spent with her sister, Linda, and her many nieces and nephews.
Bertha had the ability of being able to turn the simplest things in life into the best time you ever had. Her love, strength, and unwavering support for her family will be remembered and cherished always. She leaves behind a void that can never be filled, but her memory will live on in the hearts of those she loved so fiercely.
She will be laid to rest in a private service.
In lieu of flowers & gifts the family ask donations to be made in Bertha’s memory to:
(charity information forthcoming)