Rachael Jane (Congdon) Bert

Rachel Jane Bert, 92, died Saturday March 12, 2011 at Wesley Hospital in Wichita. She was born September 19, 1918 in Newton to Lisle and Daisy (Stever) Congdon.

She graduated from Sedgwick High School in 1936, Stephens College in 1938 with an Associates in Arts, and Kansas State University in 1940 with a Bachelor of Science in Home Economics.

She married Raymond E. Bert March 15, 1941 who died September 2010. Rachael and Ray enjoyed over 69 years together in a wonderful marriage. She was active in many organiaations including the Congregational Church, Delta Delta Delta, Sorority, American Legion Auxiliary, Kansas Mother-of-the-yer Selection Committee, Daughters of the American Revolution, Beta Mothers Club. P.E.O., 4-H, Athena and the Stephens College Alumnae Board. Rachael's greatest legacy will be her warm, gracious concern for everyone as well as her honesty and integrity. She exhibited these characteristics daily in both words and deeds.

She will always be rembered for her eternal optimism, her love of animals great and small, and her infectious smile.

She is survived by sons: Stephen of Missoula, Montana; Kendall of Tuscon, Arizona; Stanley of Dallas, Texas; and Carlton and his wife, Shari of Larned; daughter, Natalie Bert Nickell of Dallas, Texas; 11 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. Sister: Mary Margaret Alderton of Chicato, Illinois. She is preceded in death by her parents.

A memorial service was held March 21, 2011 at the Plymouth Congregational Church in Sedgwick. A reception followed at the church.