Roberta Rae Ross

Roberta "Berti" Ross, 80, passed away peacefully on July 11, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family after a courageous seven-month battle with cancer.

Berti was born on June 20, 1946, to Frank and Helma (Knutson) Heath. She spent her entire life in the Strum area and graduated from Eleva-Strum High School in 1964.

On April 24, 1965, she married the love of her life, George Ross. Together they shared 61 wonderful years of marriage and were blessed with three children: Travis, Heather, and Nathan.

After raising her children, Berti returned to school to pursue her passion for nursing. She earned her nursing degree and devoted her entire career to the Strum Nursing Home. Beginning as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), she worked her way up to Administrator, where her compassion, leadership, and dedication touched the lives of countless residents, families, and coworkers.

Following retirement, Berti and George spent 13 winter seasons in Phoenix, Arizona, creating treasured memories together. She found joy in making baskets, crocheting, quilting, and especially taking road trips in their vintage cars. Above all else, she cherished time spent with her family.

Berti is lovingly survived by her husband, George Ross; her children, Travis (Martha Peterson) Ross, Heather (Ryan) Cornelissen, and Nathan (Danette) Ross; and her ten grandchildren: Bridgitte (Josh) Segerstrom, Brooklyn Ross, Brittany Ross, Lindsey Ross, Travis "T.J." Ross, Rylie (Logan) Rubeck, Victoria "Tori" Ross, Ross Cornelissen, Makayla Ross, and Lilian Ross. She was also blessed with ten great-grandchildren.

She is further survived by her sisters, Shirley Porter and Sharon Peterson; her brothers, Floyd Heath and Robin (Lisa) Heath; sisters-in-law, Loetta Christianson and Marge Gruel; brother-in-law, Dale Ross; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her granddaughter, Makaiya Ross; and many beloved brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.

Berti will be remembered for her kind heart, unwavering dedication to caring for others, her strong work ethic, and the deep love she had for her family. Her gentle spirit and warm smile will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, July 24, 2026 at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 109 Elm St., Strum with Pastor Terry Lorenz officiating. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until time of service.

Cremation Society of Wisconsin, Altoona is assisting the family. Online condolences may be shared at www.cremationsociety-wi.com..