Donna Bertrand, 90
Donna Marie Bertrand was born Dec. 18, 1934, to Harold Koehn and Elaine Schafer Koehn. She grew up in Avoca, Minn., and attended Slayton High School. She and Harold John Bertrand were married at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Avoca on Feb. 6, 1952. Shortly after marrying, Harold was drafted into the U.S. Army. Upon his return, they lived in rural Wilmont, Minn., where they farmed and raised their family. Being involved with children throughout her life brought Donna great joy. Because she was the oldest of nine children, Donna was a caretaker to her younger siblings and would often babysit other children in the area as well. Donna, along with Harold, raised seven children: five boys and two girls. As her youngest children started school, Donna became involved with the Head Start program, first as a parent volunteer and then as a teacher. In 1976, Donna earned a Child Development Associate credential; something she was very proud of. Donna was an active member of Catholic Daughters Court of Madonna for 50-plus years. She found value in working the Al Anon program and was an inspiration to others who were affected by addiction.
Donna was blessed with 19 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren (with one expected in September), and one great-great granddaughter. She was a hands-on Grandma and enjoyed being part of their lives. Her famous Belgian cookies and peanut butter balls were family favorites each Christmas and summers were spent at Grandpa and Grandma’s cabin on Lake Sarah. Grandma’s “cabin” potatoes and applesauce Jello were always a hit after a fun day on the lake. In her later years, she and Harold spent winter months in Casa Grande, Ariz., where they had many friends and visitors. Working puzzles, playing card games, and reading were some of her favorite pastimes. She relished a good conversation over a cup of coffee and a sweet treat. Donna was the sweetest person who was always thoughtful and generous. She recognized her blessings and lived with a grateful heart. Donna Bertrand passed away on Friday, May 2, 2025, at Our House hospice home in Slayton at the age of 90.
Donna is survived by her seven children, Nicholas and Pat Bertrand of Brandon, Gene and Carol Bertrand of Wilmont, Minn., Gary and Mary Bertrand of Sioux Falls, Bruce Bertrand and Mary Hieb of Slayton, Minn.,,Dennis and Nancy Bertrand of Garvin, Minn., Suanne and Loren Christiansen of Balaton, Minn., Jane and Jim Kocmick of Brandon. She is also survived by her brothers, Gerald and Elaine Koehn, Mark and Virginia Koehn; sister-in-law, Cheryl Koehn; sister, Joan and Harold Nowak; brother-in-law, Marvin (Lefty) Erickson; and several nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by Harold, her husband of 61 years; her parents; an infant son; and brothers, Ron Koehn, Roger Koehn, Craig Koehn, David Koehn; sister, Shirley Erickson; sister-in-law, Gayle Koehn; daughter-in-law, Virginia Bertrand; Harold’s parents, Nicholas and Lucy Bertrand; and special friend, Don Ebbinga.
Funeral services will be at Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church in Wilmont at 10:30 a.m. Friday, May 9, 2025 with Fr. Rick Colletti celebrating. The organist is Linda Huisman. The song leader is Gina Neuman. The pallbearers are Raymond Bertrand, Craig Bertrand, Brian Bertrand, Chaser Ellingson, Lissa Li, Tyler Christiansen and Nathan Kocmick. Private interment will be at Calvary Cemetery, also in Wilmont, at a later date.
The family asks that donations to Hospice of Murray County be considered in memory of Donna.
Visitation will be Thursday from 4-7 p.m. with the rosary at 4 p.m. at Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church in Wilmont, and one hour prior to the service at the church on day.
The Totzke Funeral Home, Slayton, is assisting the family with arrangements. Send condolences online at totskefuneralhome.com.
