Gertrude Harstad
July 2, 1909 - May 24, 2009
Gertrude Wendel was born July 2, 1909 southwest of Sanborn, the daughter of Jacob and Katherine (Geisenger) Wendel. She was the first of eleven children in the family. She attended Grey School and graduated from the 8th grade. Gertrude was married to Michael Harstad in October of 1930 in Sanborn. They farmed near Sanborn for many years and raised three daughters; Angeline, Lila and Joyce. She served as treasurer for the Lakeside School District in 1952. Gertrude began working at the State Hospital, Jamestown, North Dakota, in 1965 and continued to work there until 1974. She moved to Valley City in 1993. Michael died January 3, 1994. Gertrude is survived by her three daughters, Angeline Harstad and Lila Bitz both of Valley City and Joyce Schauer of Marysville, Washington; seven grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren, 10 great great grandchildren; one brother, John (Mary Ann) Wendel and three sisters-in-laws, Beatrice, Alice, Delores Wendel all of Valley City; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, five sisters, four brothers and two son-in-laws, Allen Schauer and Edward Bitz.
Gertrude Wendel was born July 2, 1909 southwest of Sanborn, the daughter of Jacob and Katherine (Geisenger) Wendel. She was the first of eleven children in the family. She attended Grey School and graduated from the 8th grade. Gertrude... View Obituary & Service Information