Donald Bertram

Donald Bertram was peacefully called home on August 24, 2026. Don was a loving husband to Betty (née McCullough) for 62 years. This blessed union produced four children; Dawn Gess, Barb (Mike) Stranczek, Tom (Courtney) Bertram and Brandy (David) Flores. Don was a wisecracking Papa to Ashley (Kurt), Mike (Anna), Steve (Emily), Eric (Taylor), Nicole (Jesse), Zach, AJ, Livi and Nic. Papa never missed an opportunity to tell or teach a funny joke. His laughter & legacy will live on with six beautiful great-grand children. Don was born in San Fransisco in August of 1944 to Vivian and Edward Bertram. Don had fond memories of growing up with his “favorite” sister, Kathy Bertram. Not that he had a choice in favorite because she was his only sister (which is just the kind of joke he would make) but don’t be fooled, he loved her very much. Don was preceded in death by his brother Tom (Joanne) Bertram. He was proud of his brother who was a Military Veteran who faithfully served his country in Vietnam and beyond. Don also had fond memories of numerous in-laws (or out-laws as he would say in jest), cousins, nieces and nephews. Don took the train to Chicago for 35 years as an employee at Options Clearing Corporation. Luckily, at the end of the day that commute ended at a local watering hole. Don’s kids and grandkids never missed an opportunity to go with Grandma BJ to pick him up from “work” and get a chance to play a game or be treated to his favorite burger. In retirement Don & Betty moved to Manteno where they were able to enjoy lots of dinners and laughs with wonderful life-long friends. Don and Betty found their spiritual home at Risen Savior Lutheran church where Don served as an Elder for several years. Don also has many reliable and kind neighbors who admired his prestine lawn. They often referred to him as the “Mayor of Diversatech Drive”. Don could often come off a stubborn and impatient but dispite this he had so many amazing people come into his life. Don’s family is immensely grateful for every person he was able to create a memory with. Those memories will now comfort them as we share our stories and laughter. Visitation will be held from 1 p.m. until the time of the 4 p.m. funeral service on Saturday, August 29, 2026 at Clancy-Gernon Funeral Home in Manteno. Rev. Kevin Werner will officiate the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Risen Savior Lutheran Church or the Essential Tremor Research Foundation. Please sign his guestbook at www.clancygernon.com.

Donald Bertram

August 9, 1944 - August 24, 2026