Obituary

Bertha Mary (Mathison) Bond

Bertha M. Bond passed away Sunday, May 25, 2014 at the Central Montana Skilled Nursing Center in Lewistown.
Bertha was born in Hot Springs, S. D., March 31, 1936 as the first child of Blanche Rahauser and Walter Mathison.  Later, a sister, Helen, and a brother, Walter joined the family.  Walter passed away in a logging accident in 1966.  Helen survives.  Bertha’s parents are deceased.
Bertha’s education began in Bozeman and continued in Deer Lodge, the orphan’s home in Twin Bridges, Avon, a return to Deer Lodge, Winnemucca, Ore., and finally in 1954 High School graduation in Deer Lodge.  College credits were earned at Western in Dillon and Northern in Havre.  She was one of the last to be issued a two year teaching certificate.  Later, a degree was realized plus a fifth year certificate.  These credentials laid the foundation for a career in elementary education with an emphasis in reading and Chapter One.  Her career took her to Winifred, Choteau, and Browning, all in Montana.
Bertha, “Bert” as she was known to all, married Alfred Bond in the Deer Lodge Catholic Church in 1955.  From this union, four children entered their lives; Charles, Denise and spouse Gary, Edmond and spouse Vicki, Frank and spouse Genny. Numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren expanded the family tree.
Bert’s life was enriched with the lifelong support, guidance, and love from Marie and Clifford Gilbert and family from Deer Lodge.
Aside from being a compassionate mother, wife, and educator Bert was a gifted reader and sports fan.  She was the total package – a lady.  She will be forever missed.
Memorial donations can be made in Bert’s name to a local Dementia/Alzheimer’s Organization or your local library.
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, June 2, 2014, 1 p.m. at the Immaculate Conception Church in Deer Lodge.  Rite of Committal will follow at Hillcrest Cemetery.
Bert’s family and friends can express condolences online at www.creelfuneralhome.com
Service and cremation arrangements are under the care of Creel Funeral Home.

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