Bertie Lou Steger

Bertie Lou (Edwards) Steger, age 90, passed away July 20th, 2019 in Oro Valley, Arizona. Bertie was born in Aurora, Wisconsin, on November 13, 1928. After graduation from Kingsford High School in Kingsford, Michigan, she attended both North Park College and American Conservatory of Music in Chicago, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Piano Performance. Bertie taught piano for over 50 years. Apart from her passion for music, Bertie was known for her couture design and seamstress skills, with a flair for matching colors and styles...... always the fashionista.

Bertie married Robert Steger in 1950 and lived in LaGrange, Illinois where they raised 2 daughters, Bobbie and Lynn. In 1969 Bertie and Bob moved to Rhinelander, Wisconsin, and for 30 years enjoyed the beautiful Northwoods and sunsets over their lake home. Big skies, sunshine, and the unique Sonoran Desert then drew them to Oro Valley, Arizona where they continued to enjoy a spirited lifestyle.

Bertie was active in the First Congregational Church in Rhinelander, Wisconsin, and in the Lake County Musicians. She especially enjoyed playing anything by Chopin. She loved to ski, golf, and was a member of the Sun City Hiking Club. On her 80th birthday she proudly hiked to the top of Doe Mountain in Sedona. She was also known for baking a mean blackberry pie.

Bertie's zest for life was not diminished by Alzheimer's disease, cheerfully walking her puppy Taffy and winning a beauty pageant while at Brookdale.

Bertie was preceded in death by her parents, Wesley and Myrtle Edwards, her brother Tom Edwards, and her husband Bob Steger of 52 years. Bertie is survived by her daughters, Bobbie Wilson (Sid) and Lynn Hudson, her grandchildren Chris Wilson, Dan Wilson, Amy Hudson and Sara Hudson, her great grandchildren, Maya Wilson and Autumn Wilson, and many nieces and nephews.

A small memorial service will be held in Aurora Wisconsin at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, spend time spreading joy, and think of Bertie!