Gertrude M. Hedeler February 14, 1923 – December 24, 2018 Gertrude “Gertie” Mary Fitzgerald Hedeler born February 14, 1923 passed away on Christmas Eve after a short illness. She was the beloved daughter of the late Gertrude and John “Jack” Fitzgerald. Gert grew up in Kensington, CT, moving to New Britain after marriage to her late husband, Frederick “Fred” Hedeler.
She was a graduate of Berlin High School and received an Associate’s degree from Moody’s Business School. She was an executive assistant at Corbin Manufacturing Company in New Britain until leaving to raise her children. She later attended Briarwood College to obtain her Certificate as a Teachers Aid and worked as an Aid and ESL tutor at Nathan Hale Junior High until its closing.
During that period, she also worked as a sales associate at Irene’s where she made dear friends and shared many a laugh and good time. After retiring she moved back to Kensington and lived there until moving in with her daughter and family several years ago. Gert is survived by her daughter Janet/Richard, her grandchildren Charles “C.J.” and Erika and step-grandchildren Kelly and Molly, her daughter Susan/Dan and granddaughter Kathleen.
Gert had a special relationship with C.J. They shared a passion for history and spent countless hours discussing a variety of topics. Gert had a wonderful relationship with Erika and enjoyed chatting with Erika about the latest trending fashions and recipes.
Gert loved both of them very much and was incredibly proud of them. Gert’s wish for them was to be their own person, believing in themselves and striving for their best career path. Gert also loved all animals, especially the fur babies she shared her home with, including the cats Binx, Lilly, Cali, Tippi, and Wiley who were by her side daily.
Gert will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her, especially her dear friends, Phyllis, Tommy, JoAnne and Lil who spoke with her frequently. Although a single child, Gertie had a very close sisterly relationship with her life-long best friend, Irene Corr Peterson. Irene, her husband Fred Peterson, and Gert often took trips together with their close-knit group of friends and had a grand time traveling to various destinations around the world.
We’re sure that Irene and Gertie will be shopping up a storm on the other side. Gert was a life-long communicant of St. Paul’s Church in Kensington where her Grandfather John L. Fitzgerald laid the cornerstone. She was Born: February 14, 1923 Place of Birth: New Britain, CT Death: December 24, 2018 Place of Death: Hartford, CT actively involved in the Ladies Guild and Rosary Circle, as well as volunteering whenever she was able.
She found great comfort in her Faith. Gert was also a proud member of the Red Hat Society, and made many friends and acquaintances through its social gatherings. Gert’s other hobbies included trips to the beach and reading mystery novels.
Like the protagonists of the stories she read, Gert was always interested in the new adventures that were waiting for her. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, December 28, 2018 at 11:30 AM at St. Paul’s Church in Kensington followed by burial at St. Mary’s Cemetery in New Britain. Erickson-Hansen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the Newington Humane Society, Newington CT.
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