Tony D. Bertelson, 58

Published 9:03 am Monday, November 15, 2010

Tony D. Bertelson, 58, died unexpectedly as a result of a heart attack early Saturday morning, Nov. 13, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Rochester.

Tony Bertelson

He was born on Aug. 25, 1952, in Albert Lea, to Glenn and Gerry (Tapager) Bertelson. He graduated from Albert Lea High School. He married Sharyl Thompson and to this union two daughters were born- Wendi and Niki. They were later divorced.

Tony worked at Wilson’s, Bridon Cordage and for the last 15 years, Hormel, boning hams.

He was united in marriage to Kathy Alberts on Aug. 4, 2005 in Bullhead City, AZ. Together, they enjoyed many fishing trips to Mille Lacs , traveling to San Franciso and spoiling the grandchildren. Tony loved to hunt and fish; “The Quack Shack” was a special haven for him. He adored his grandchildren, all 15 of them, and formed a special “grandpa” bond with each of them.

Tony is survived by his wife, Kathy; daughters: Wendi Bertelson of Gordonsville; Niki Solum of Albert Lea; step-children: Candace (David) Pesch of Twenty Nine Palms, CA; Klaus (Sam) Alberts IV of Hayfield; Kevin (Rachel) Alberts of Albert Lea; Colby (Dena) Alberts of Byron; 15 grandchildren, whom he loved deeply: Emily, Abbie, Adam and Aaron Solum; Anna Reyna, Scott and Hannah Franklin; Lexie, Noah and Wyatt Pesch; Katelyn and Peyton Alberts; Grayce Alberts; Max Hartson and Klaus Alberts V; brother, Ed (Norlene) Bertelson of Isle; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his former wife, Sharyl; and a granddaughter in infancy.

He will be greatly missed.

A time for remembering and sharing memories of Tony will be from 5-8 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 18, 2010 at Bonnerup Funeral Service, 2210 East Main, Albert Lea. Private graveside services will be held at Graceland Cemetery at a later date. Memorials suggested in lieu of flowers.