Hilary Bertsche

GOSHEN - Hilary Bertsche, 96, went home to his Lord on Tuesday February 10th 2026. He passed away peacefully at Greencroft Healthcare.

Hilary was born on November 16th, 1929 in Flanagan, IL to the late Almon and Vera Bertsche. He married Gladys Long on August 29, 1953 in Sterling, IL. 

Surviving are a son Stephen Bertsche and wife Karmen of Middlebury, IN, daughter Laurie Bertsche and wife Mary Ann Boyle of Bellingham, WA and daughter Carol Kauffman and husband Jeff of Fort Collins, CO, 10 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren and 6 great great grandchildren.

Hilary was preceded in death by his parents, wife Gladys, son David Bertsche, daughter–law Diane Bertsche as well as 1 brother and 4 sisters.

Hilary grew up on a farm near Flanagan, IL where he attended rural schools, graduating from Flanagan High School. He was baptized, joined and actively participated at Meadows Mennonite Church. Since retiring from farming, Hilary lived in Goshen, IN and was a member of Assembly Mennonite Church.

Hilary was a conscientious objector and served his alternate service at Brooklane Hospital in Hagerstown, MD and Alexian Brothers Hospital in Chicago. Afterwards he farmed with Gladys for 45 years in Flanagan, IL. He was active in church council and a long time volunteer and supporter of Camp Friedenswald, a Mennonite church camp in Michigan as well as various short term voluntary service activities and Habitat for Humanity. His strong faith led him to work for peace and justice and was known for his smile, story telling and wide circle of friends.

A memorial service will take place at Assembly Mennonite Church, 1201 S. 11th Street, Goshen, IN on Saturday March 21, 2026 at noon led by Anna Yoder Schlabach. Visitation with friends and family will begin at 10am to 12 noon.. A light meal will follow along with sharing of memories. Memorial contributions can be directed to Camp Friedenswald or Christian Peacemaker Teams

Family has requested no flowers..

Elkhart Cremation Services is entrusted with his arrangements.

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