Millie Marion Bertsch DeClercq was born August 17, 1925 to Chris and Lydia Bertsch in Glen Ullin, ND. Her family later moved to Hebron, ND. where she grew up next door to Ernest (Ernie) DeClercq whom she would marry years later. She was teaching in a rural school when Ernie and her were married in August of 1949. They moved to Missoula, MT. in 1951 and that same year their daughter; Deborah was born. After Ernie retired they moved to Helena to be closer to Deborah and her family. They celebrated 64 years together before Ernie passed away in 2014. Millie will always be remembered for the joy she got face-timing with Lacy, Avery and Chris and her love of playing bingo with her group of friends at Touchmark.
She is survived by her daughter, Deborah(Randy) Williams, Helena, granddaughter Lacy(Chris) Burpee, Chicago, great granddaughter Avery Burpee, Chicago, her brother Burton Bertsch and sister-in law, Olivia Bertsch and many nieces and nephews.
Millie is preceded in death by her husband, Ernie, both parents; Chris and Lydia, sisters: Bertha Schrenk, Rita Berger(Tony), Emma Wachtler(Stanley), Katie Schilz(Nick), Esther Senne(Armin), and brothers; Walter Bertsch and Albert Bertsch.
A special thanks to the staff at Touchmark and St. Peter’s Hospice for the loving care she received. In lieu of flowers memorials may be sent in Millie’s name to St. Peter’s hospice, 201 S. California St. Helena, MT. 59601. Please see below to off the family a condolence or to share a memory of Millie.
Bonnie Schertenleib says
It will be different without you here as you have in all of my 69 years. There are lots of memories but we will meet again some day. Will miss you. God Bless. Bonnie