Bill Bertschy, 81

Bill Bertschy, 81, formerly of Bruneau, died May 19, 2006, in the VA Hospital in Seattle, from complications due to cancer. He was surrounded by his family and friends at the time of his death.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date.

Bill was born Dec. 28, 1924, in Bruneau, to George and Eva Bertschy. They moved to Buhl, where he went to school, graduating from Buhl High School. He served in the Navy during to the Korean War. Upon on his return he lived in Bruneau.

"Bill had the gift of gab and was a great storyteller," his family said. "Then it was up to you to separate the facts from fiction. He had the don't do as I do but do as I say attitude. He will always be remembered for the lecture and finger pointing. And with so many of us kids, he couldn't do it all one day. But he showed no favoritism. But afterwards he would want a big hug and say I love you.

"He was a avid reader. He loved yard sales. There was always a bargain around the next corner. He loved the Bruneau Valley and surrounding area. On his visits here, there was never enough time to visit all his friends."

He lived the last 25 years of his life with his long-time companion Florence (Bay) Bear in Pomeroy, Wash.

He is survived by: his eight children, Cathy, Debbie, Betty, Bill, Richard, Danny, Mary and Lisa, 28 grandchildren and 31 great-grandchildren, as well as his companion Bay and family.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret, one brother, Jim,and two daughters ,Teresa and Verna.