Walbertha “Bertha” Mary Brown, 96, formerly of Rose Creek, Minnesota, died Saturday, July 25, 2015, at her daughter’s home in Rochester.

Bertha was born on the family farm near Stacyville, Iowa, on April 26, 1919, to Fred and Emma (Weninger) Steiger. She attended Visitation Catholic Grade School in Stacyville. After her schooling, she worked on the family farm located between Stacyville and Johnsburg, Minnesota. Bertha married Fred Brown on June 14, 1945, in Stacyville. To this union, four children were born. Fred and Bertha raised their family in Rose Creek, Minnesota. Fred died in August of 1991.

Bertha was a homemaker who loved gardening, cooking, sewing and entertaining family and friends at the house. She was known for having a smile on her face and had a friendly attitude toward others.

Bertha is survived by her children: Anne (Allen) Mickow of Rochester, Arlene Prokasky of Sandstone and Jeff Brown of Rochester; grandchildren: Amanda, Preston, Christin and Mark; great-grandchildren: Xavier and Roman; along with many nieces and nephews.

Bertha is preceded in death by her parents; husband Fred; son Dale; and siblings: Viola, Alfred and Eugene.

The family is grateful to the staff of Mayo Transitional Care and Mayo Hospice for their professional care and support. Special thanks to Darlene from Elder Network for her caring companionship and to the Parish of St. Francis for their prayers and Sacrament of Holy Communion.

A funeral mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, July 31, 2015, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Rose Creek with Father Swaminatha Pothireddy officiating. Visitation will be held an hour prior to the funeral mass only. Burial will follow at St. Peter’s Cemetery in Rose Creek. Mayer Funeral Home of Austin is entrusted with the funeral arrangements. Online Condolences-www.mayerfh.com.