Bertha Rysak Radtke

February 1922 - November 2019

Born in Philadelphia to Leon and Apolonia Rysak, Bertha grew up in the city, helping at her parents' store. She grew up with her four brothers, Eugene, Lang, and twins Emil and Matthew at their home on Venango Street in North Philadelphia. After graduating high school, she worked as a secretary and stenographer first at PSFS, then at the Budd Company, working there during the development of the iconic Silver Slipper and Pioneer Zephyr streamliner trains.

In high school she met, and in 1942 married, Herman Radtke, a research chemist for Rohm and Haas Company. In 1946, they welcomed their daughter, Pam, into their world and lives.

An expert seamstress, Bert made many types of clothing and household items herself, often using patterns she designed. Herm and Bert's favorite pastime for many years was square dancing and they rose to the C-5 level. She made dancewear for the both of them herself, sewing the classically elaborate, traditionally-styled square dance dresses and petticoats herself.

A longtime resident of Feasterville from 1953 until her passing, enjoying gardening, housekeeping, cooking, and sewing. Following Herman's retirement they enjoyed traveling and helping to raise their grandson, Dustin. Her particular passion was holding large family reunions in her back yard, bringing together her widespread relatives.

She is survived by her daughter and grandson, as well as a very large and extended family.