Bertha Kunau

Bertha was born in La Junta, CO on July 24, 1922 to her parents, Fred and Anna Frank Sr. She moved with her parents and three siblings to Rush (Kendrick), CO at the age of four. Her mother passed away when she was nine years old. The family remained in Rush and grew, welcoming Elma and five additional siblings.

At the age of 22 she married Elmer E. Kunau on August 26, 1944. They lived and ranched in Rush until he passed away on February 11, 1980. They had one daughter, Eileen. Bertha stayed in Rush where she continued ranching until she sold her cattle at the age of 80. She moved to her home in Colorado Springs in 2009 to be near her daughter and grandson.

Love and devotion to family and friends were her top priorities and dominated her life. She loved playing games and the companionship of meeting and visiting with friends, neighbors and family. She savored all aspects of ranch life and enjoyed spending time outdoors. She maintained a strong relationship and enjoyed attending the Kindrick Bible Church and the Church on the Ranch. Bertha was known for her home cooking, her nephews and nieces fondly remember her homemade noodles. She was recognized and respected for her amazing ability to recall dates of important family events. She was the go to person for family dates.

Bertha is survived by her daughter, Eileen Ivie and her grandson, Jeff Slate; two step-brothers, two step-sisters and many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her husband, Elmer; three brothers and one step-sister.

Bertha will be buried in a private ceremony. A memorial will take place on January 8, 2018 at 1:00 p.m. at the Church on the Ranch, 3685 Jeannine Dr. Colorado Springs. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Church on the Ranch.