Goshen, IN - Hilary Bertsche, 96, went home to his Lord on Tuesday February 10. He passed away peacefully at Greencroft Healthcare, Goshen.

Hilary was born on Nov. 16, 1929 in Flanagan, Illinois to the late Almon and Vera Bertsche.

He married Gladys Long on Aug. 29,1953 in Sterling, Illinois.

Surviving are a son, Stephen Bertsche and wife, Karmen of Middlebury; daughter, Laurie Bertsche and wife, Mary Ann Boyle of Bellingham, Washington; and daughter, Carol Kauffman and husband, Jeff of Fort Collins, Colorado; 10 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; and 6 great-great-grandchildren. Also surviving is brother, John Bertsche and sister, Emily Amstutz.

Hilary was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Gladys; son, David; daughter-in-law, Diane; as well as 1 brother and 4 sisters.

Hilary grew up on a farm near Flanagan, Illinois where he attended rural schools, graduating from Flanagan High School.

He was baptized, joined and actively participated at Meadows Mennonite Church.

Since retiring from farming, Hilary lived in Goshen; and was a member of Assembly Mennonite Church.

Hilary was a conscientious objector and served his alternate service at Brooklane Hospital in Hagerstown, Maryland and Alexian Brothers Hospital in Chicago.

Afterwards he farmed with Gladys for 45 years in Flanagan, Illinois.

He was active in church council and a long time volunteer and supporter of Camp Friedenswald, a Mennonite Church camp in Michigan as well as various short term voluntary service activities and Habitat for Humanity.

His strong faith led him to work for peace and justice and was known for his smile, story telling and wide circle of friends.

A memorial service will take place at Assembly Mennonite Church, 727 New York Street, Goshen, on Saturday March 21, at noon.

Visitation with friends and family will begin at 10 a.m. to 12 noon.

A light meal will follow along with sharing of memories.

Memorial contributions can be directed to Camp Friendenswald or Christian Peacemaker Teams.

The family requests no flowers.

Following is a zoom link to the memorial service for those wishing to observe online. https://us06web.zoom.us/j/9995275153

Elkhart Cremation Services is entrusted with his arrangements.