Duede, Bertha L. (Alexander)

Ann Arbor, MI (Formerly of Ypsilanti, MI)

Age 90, passed away Friday, February 18, 2022 at the Evangelical Nursing Home in Saline, Michigan after bravely fighting dementia for many years. A loving husband, immediate family and friends, and nursing staff helped bring dignity to a life well lived. She was born September 11, 1931 in Ypsilanti, the daughter of Percil and Jennie (Roach) Alexander.

Professionally, Bertha graduated from Cleary College and worked as a secretary for the University of Michigan Dental School for 20 years, retiring in 1987. Although she raised a family in the Ypsilanti suburbs, other residences included lakefront property in Hamburg, MI and a house on 13 wooded acres near Ann Arbor. As a loving wife, mother, and grandmother she loved being surrounded by children and grandchildren, especially on the weekends. Bertha really loved listening to audible books (especially Harry Potter) and completing crossword puzzles. Every weekend became a holiday where family shared life and times at the wonderful home in the woods. Eventually great-grandchildren got to visit and roam the creek that borders the property. Bertha shared time, food, and stories that brought everyone together.

Survivors will keep her alive in the precious memories held and told. Survivors include: husband Harold L. Duede, two sons Stanley L. Duede (Florida) and Richard A. Duede (Illinois), one sister Betty (Russell) Rhodes (Ypsilanti), two granddaughters Rachel, Kimberly, one grandson Scott, one great-granddaughter Maddy, five great-grandsons Soren, Carl, Sven, Leif, Richard, and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents Percil and Jennie Alexander, sisters Patti Alexander, June Booth, Addie Alexander, and two brothers Robert Alexander, James Alexander.

Ashes will be interred at the Highland Memorial Cemetery in Ypsilanti in a private ceremony at a later date. Because we are celebrating a life well lived, please feel free to share a memory on this obituary page, on Facebook, or directly with the immediate family.