Martha "Martje" Bertsch

Martha Ann “Martje” Bertsch, age 69, of Holland, passed away August 16, 2018, after a brief illness. Born May 27, 1949, in Pensacola, Florida, to Fred and Lorraine Bertsch, Ms. Bertsch grew up on Lake Macatawa, which nurtured her love of sailing. A longtime member of the Macatawa Bay Yacht Club, she was passionate about sailing and won many fleet championships. Martje passed her love of sailing on to her sons, and in recent years found great joy sailing with her grandchildren.

Ms. Bertsch graduated from West Ottawa High and Michigan State University. She remained an ardent Michigan State fan throughout her life. Martje was a lifelong educator, having taught 2nd grade at Pine Creek Elementary in Holland for many years, and as a children’s librarian in Virginia. Her sons, Kasey and Spencer Nadolsky, were her pride and joy, and she relished their athletic and academic accomplishments.

As a former teacher and children's librarian, kids were foremost in her life, especially her beloved grandchildren, Trey, Brooke and Piper Nadolsky. The happiness they brought her in recent years was tremendous. Martje will be sorely missed and lovingly remembered by friends and family.

She is survived by sons Dr. Karl “Kasey” (Rachel) Nadolsky of Holland, Dr. Spencer (Jenna) Nadolsky of San Diego, grandchildren Trey, Brooke, and Piper; sisters Susan Gentry, Dr. Mary Jo (Mel) Bertsch, brother Fred “Buck” (Cindy) Bertsch, and many nephews and nieces.

A memorial celebration her life will take place at a later date. To sign an online registry, please visit www.dykstrafuneralhome.com

Professional services entrusted to the Dykstra Funeral Home - Downtown Chapel.