Passed away on Aug 6, 2009

Bertha Blackdeer, age 93, of Black River Falls, WI, passed away Thursday, August 6, 2009, at Black River Memorial Hospital, while under the care of Black River Memorial Hospice. Bertha Greengrass was born on August 4, 1916 in the Town of Komensky, Jackson County, to Edward and Jenny (Blackhawk) Greengrass. She was raised in the Black River Falls area. She married Irvin Blackdeer, Sr. in Black River Falls. Irvin Blackdeer, Sr. later died. In addition to having lived at Black River Falls, Bertha also had lived at Wisconsin Dells, Hayward, and Oneida. She had returned to Black River Falls 12 years ago. She wove and sold Indian baskets, and made beaded Ho-Chunk hair pieces. She was a member of the Wisconsin Folk Arts Board and served as a master instructor. She was a member of the Native American Church of North America. Bertha enjoyed bingo, canning grapes, making basket, bead work, Ho-Chunk crafts, watching soap operas on television, baking, and Pow-Wow music. Survivors include a daughter, Elena Greendeer of Black River Falls; 10 grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren; and a brother, John Greengrass. In addition to her husband, Irvin Blackdeer, Sr., Bertha was preceded in death by 2 sons, Irvin Blackdeer, Jr. and Oliver R. Blackdeer; an infant daughter; a granddaughter, Renee Blackdeer; a brother, Edwin Greengrass; and 2 sisters, Ruth Cloud and Rose Greengrass. Native American services were held Sunday, August 9, 2009, 1:00 p.m., at the Ho-Chunk District One Community Center, Black River Falls. Burial followed in the Trempealeau Public Cemetery, Trempealeau, WI. Family and friends were invited for visitation on Saturday, August 8, 2009, starting at 2:00 p.m., at the Ho-Chunk District One Community Center, Black River Falls. Buswell Funeral Home of Black River Falls assisted the family with arrangements. Online condolences are available at www.buswellfuneralhome.com.