In Memory

Gayleen "Gay" McBee (Bertelson) - Class Of 1957 VIEW PROFILE

Gayleen Gay McBee (Bertelson)

August 8, 1939 - May 17, 2014

1964 - Wedding Photo

Christmas Eve, 2014, will mark Bob and Gayleen's 50th wedding anniversary.

Gayleen was an accomplished and award-winning artist whose home is filled with stained glass that she had created over the years.  Gayleen (along with her husband, Bob) spent much time caring for their handicapped daughter.  

Loving mother of Rob and Marina, and wife of Robert Bertelson (CHS 1956) for nearly 50 years.

 2013 - taken just before her cancer diagnosis

 


 
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06/11/14 03:46 PM #1    

Franklin "Frank" W. Fish (1957)

She was a warm and friendly classmate.  Those are my memories

06/11/14 04:10 PM #2    

Joey Phillips (Gallagher) (1957)

So sorry to hear about Gay.  My thoughts and prayers are with her family.  I always remember her as a very nice and kind person.

 

06/12/14 12:40 PM #3    

Rosemarie (Rosie) Streich (Francisco) (1957)

So sorry to hear about Gay. I remember her lovely smile. After visiting Gay and Bob in OR several years ago, Heidi mentioned their warm and caring family. Our condolences to Bob and family. Rosie and Rich Francisco 

06/14/14 03:09 PM #4    

Sharon Esterley (1961)

From Gayleen's former neighbor & friend in Oregon, Katie Thomas
 
"For ten years, I lived across the street from Gayleen (the name she chose to use) in Oregon. She was the most gentle, caring, creative person I have ever known, and I considered her a beloved sister. It was a privilege to know her. 
 
"The years after high school I moved to Denver for six years, before going with roommates to California where I met my husband.  We retired to Oregon, where we were neighbors to the Bertelsons.  It was such a privilege to know Gayleen. It's hard to believe anyone else could ever give the care to Marina that she did, though Bob and their son Rob are trying.
 
"Gayleen found the time to help others, no matter how busy she was, and managed to squeeze in moments to herself, when she created amazing stained glass, beaded projects, sewing for Marina, and many other things.  After my husband died, I moved back to Colorado to be closer to one of my children, and the first Christmas was so lonely for Oregon, and the happy times there.  A package arrived, with an apologetic note for the silly content.  It was a lady moose doll, made by Gayleen, along with a little rocking chair.  I laughed all day, and the blues were gone.  She sits in her chair at the fireplace every Christmas, with her legs crossed, joining an angel doll, and a gorgeous Father Christmas given me at other Christmases.  Gayleen is everywhere in my house, and forever with me."

06/27/14 09:45 AM #5    

Ronald Jay Gray (1954)

Such a lovely woman and she will be missed.  Bob and I have been best friends since High School and still keep in touch.  May happy memories prevail and comfort him and his family.

Ron Gray   Class of 54

07/08/14 11:28 AM #6    

Sharon Esterley (1961)

Sent from Marcus & Christine Molling

We are neighbors of Bob and Gayleen for years now and close friends.  My husband, Marcus and I enjoyed hearing Gayleen’s life stories of her childhood and family.  She was a precious soul, who was fully dedicated to her family.

11/20/14 03:19 PM #7    

Hayes "Osbie "Griffith (1956)

Very sad to lose her.  Gayleen was a wonderful person.  She provided unwavering strength and support of her husband, of nearly 50 years ,Bob Bertelson, son Rob and and especially of her handicapped daughter, Marina.

Hayes

(Hayes Griffith, Class of 1956)

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