Bertha Spiess

Bertha’s first light shone on October 20, 1938 to her beloved parents the late Raymond and Catherine (Sweeney) Spiess in Torrington, CT. Her final glow in the physical realm took place on November 29, 2024; leaving many who loved her to mourn her passing and celebrate her reunification with those who left before her. Bertha’s education at St. Francis of Assisi School in Torrington affirmed her strong love of God that remained with her throughout her life. It was common for Bertha to share the Lord’s Prayer and Hail Mary with family and friends.

Bertha was amongst the first of many to be employed at LARC’s vocational work program, having retired after more than 50 years of employment. Despite retiring, Bertha never truly stopped working; she kept busy at the Winsted Senior Center with Peter always ensuring her check was deposited (if you know, you know). There was no bigger Elvis fan out there, often referring to him as her baby. Bertha loved listening and singing along, even in her final days, she joyfully tapped her toes along with the rhythm of the music.

Bertha enjoyed traveling, especially with Peter and Jeannette. Some of her most cherished trips were camping (anywhere), Disney World, cruises, and Niagara Falls. Her favorite trips were to Hampton/Salisbury Beach with their live concerts where Bertha was usually the last one to leave the dance floor. Bertha loved all holiday’s and remembered everyone’s birthday. She was generous to a fault wanting to purchase gifts for anyone and everyone she met, this fell true even in her final weeks. Bertha unconditionally loved everyone; her family, friends, strangers, and animals especially her beloved Molly and Louie. She truly enveloped pure love and the world would benefit by having more Bertha’s in it.

Left behind to mourn her absence is her Brother-In-law Peter Kulinski who helped oversee her care with grace and dignity, along with many nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, great-great nieces and great-great nephews. She was predeceased by her brother Raymond Spiess, sister Shirley Brighenti, sister Joan Palmer, brother Robert Spiess, sister Jeannette Kulinski, nephew’s Anthony Pagano, James Spiess, Michael Brighenti, and great nephews Dillon Klies, and Ryan Lauzier.
The family would like to thank Leyla Peterson and her staff who lovingly cared for her for more than six years. Leyla undoubtedly became her family who along with her staff gave her back her youth. The family would also like to thank Community Systems Inc., especially the staff at Meadowview for their compassionate care.

Funeral Services will be held Thursday at 11 AM at Saint Francis Church. Burial will follow at Saint Peter Cemetery. Friends may call Wednesday from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Phalen Funeral Home. www.phalenfuneral.com

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