Bertha Appelzoller Gonzales

September 18, 1957 – January 12, 2025

Born in San Miguel, New Mexico, Bertha Appelzoller Gonzales was more than a person; she was a feeling—a place of comfort that felt like home. Her warmth, wisdom, and love created a haven for all who knew her, from her family to the animals and plants that naturally gravitated toward her.

Bertha entered this world with her other half, Beatrice, beginning a bond in the womb that continued throughout their lives and now carries into the afterlife. Their connection was unbreakable, a testament to their shared nature and unconditional love for one another.

After her passing, Bertha left pieces of herself among her children and grandchildren: Bonnie Valdez of Santa Teresa, NM; Joe Valdez; and Brenda Valdez of El Paso, TX; and her beloved grandchildren Valeria Valdez and Adrian Luna of Santa Teresa, NM; Aurora Valdez of Dallas, TX; and Ezrie Berry of El Paso, TX.

Her brothers also survive her: Ray Gonzales of Organ, NM; Lorenzo Gonzales of Reno, NV; and Lee Gonzales of Hobbs, NM her sisters, Eloisa Barrientos of Las Cruces, NM; and Genoveva Gonzales of Dumas, TX; her Aunt Ester Rosas of La Mesa, NM; and numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom held a special place in her heart.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Elma Appelzoller and Elias Gonzales; her brother, Jacobo Appelzoller; and her sisters, Beatrice Gonzales (her twin), Virginia Gonzales, and Carmen Snyder.

Bertha took pride in being her mother’s daughter, and showed that by choosing to take on the Appelzoller name. Her upbringing made her wise beyond her years, resilient, and resourceful. Despite facing challenges throughout her life, Bertha never gave up. She stayed curious about the world, often keeping up with current events, the weather, and anything she could learn. Lovingly nicknamed "Dr. Gonzales" by her doctors, she approached her health and life with both dignity and humor. In her own words, she knew when “it was time to take a restie,” a phrase she used when encouraging others to take time to rest.

As a woman of many talents, she spent over two decades as a forklift operator and warehouse worker for Johnson & Johnson and Mölnlycke Health Care, from 1982 until her retirement. She worked hard to support her family, creating a foundation of love and strength that they continue to stand on today.

Bertha's love was expressed in her actions: through her cooking, her listening, and the safe, comfortable space she created for others to rest—whether human or otherwise. She fed and cared for stray cats and birds, adored her dog Mamis, and made space for turtles and dogs alike (though she drew the line at lizards!). Animals seemed to sense her kindness and gravitated toward her.

Her grandchildren always felt her deep care and attention, as she encouraged their education, supported their interests, and made them feel cherished. Bertha enjoyed life’s simple joys: drinking coffee in her rocking chair, savoring a sweet treat, feeling the sunlight through her window, and listening to or sharing her fair share of chisme.

A memorial service to celebrate Bertha's life will be held on Friday, January 31, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Funeraria Del Angel Hillcrest West, located at 5054 Doniphan Drive, El Paso, TX 79932.

Bertha’s legacy of love, resilience, and generosity lives on in the hearts of all who knew her. Her life was a lesson in compassion, strength, and finding beauty in the simple things.