Ruth Louise Bertrand of Water Mill died at home on August 2, 2017, surrounded by her family. She was 88.
Mrs. Bertrand was born in Brooklyn on February 7, 1929, to Leffert Krummel and Augusta Biederman. She graduated from Hempstead High School and went on to a two-year program at Finch Junior College. Right after college, she was employed by Doubleday Books. She married Frederick Bertrand on October 22, 1949.
She raised seven children and, as they grew, she spent many hours volunteering in various capacities. Later she enjoyed working at Southampton College bookstore.
Her faith was very special to her, and she enjoyed attending church services with her family. She was an avid baseball fan and loved rooting for the New York Mets. She also took great joy in the beautiful East End beaches. Mostly, she enjoyed spending time with her large family, which included 21 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren, survivors said, adding that she was truly a matriarch who devoted her life to her family.
Mrs. Bertrand is survived by her children and their spouses, Fred and Regina Bertrand of Water Mill, Pamela and Vincent Giacoia of Hampton Bays, Scott and Christina Bertrand of East Hampton, Peter and Josephine Bertrand of Bridgehampton, Susan and Tim Bock of East Hampton, and Sally and Kevin Cope of Broadalbin. She was predeceased by her husband of 65 years, Frederick; and a daughter, Laurie Bertrand Weber.
Memorial donations may be sent to the Southampton Town Senior Program, Box 974, Hampton Bays, NY 11946.
Funeral arrangements were under the direction of the O’Connell Rothwell Funeral Home in Southampton. A funeral took place on Monday at the Westhampton United Methodist Church, followed by burial at Calverton National Cemetery.