Bertha R. Rice

Bertha R. Rice, 101, Wausau died Tuesday, January 1, 2013 under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services at Marywood Convalescent Center, Wausau. She was born February 26, 1911 in Chicago, daughter of the late Edward and Helena (Miltzow) Merk. She married Ralph Rice in Chicago. He preceded her in death in 1982. Bertha was a telephone operator supervisor in Chicago for many years. She later moved to Gleason and farmed there with her husband for more than 30 plus years. Bertha drove school bus in the Gleason area and was proud to hold the job as Activity Director at Pine Crest Nursing Home in Merrill. Some of her favorite pastimes included crossword puzzles, reading, crafts and spending time with her family. She was also a proud member of the Lincoln County Homemakers Association and the Lincoln County Commission on Aging. Survivors include two sons, Robert (Carolyn) Rice, Weston and Richard (Robyn) Rice, Kingman, Arizona, 13 grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren and great great grandchildren. Besides her parents and husband she was preceded in death by an infant daughter, and one step son, Ralph Rice. Private family services will be held at a later date. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 1302 Sixth Street, Wausau is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com