Gertrude H Block

Block, Gertrude (Trudy) Holmberg (1920), survived by husband Frank Block- Predeceased by parents Carlton and Edith Holmes of Lanesboro, PA and a brother Huntly of New York. Also predeceased by son Richard Holmberg and first husband Hans Holmberg, with whom she founded the Ideal Tool and Machine Co., Inc. in Great Bend, PA. She served on its board for over 40 years. She was a charter member of the Great Bend BPW, Member of the New York Teachers Association and taught in Conklin, NY for several Years.

Trudy has led an extremely active life as a volunteer, dedicating herself to many causes to make all our lives more enjoyable. She was a Past Worthy Matron of Service Chapter 618 Order of the Eastern Star and a life member, a Past Royal Matron of the order of Amaranth in Binghamton, NY, Past Grand Royal Matron of the State of New York and Past Supreme Royal Matron of the world in 1967 and a life member. She also served for several years on the NY Youth Board for Masonry. Trudy was a concert soloist in Classical and Sacred Music most of her life.

She moved to Deerfield Beach, Florida in 1969 where she continued her singing in her church, Trinity Methodist in Lighthouse Point until 1998 when she retired due to Macular Degeneration. When arriving in Florida she immediately became involved in the North Broward Society of the Symphony, now known as the Opus Society. She served on its board since the early 70’s, a life time member and a member of its Hall of Fame. She joined Deerfield Garden Club about the same time and served as its President for 10 different years- a life member of the Florida Federation of Garden Clubs and elected to its Hall of Fame. She worked with Junior Gardeners in the Deerfield Elementary Schools for several years, and also served on the Deerfield Beautification Authority in its early stages. She is a member of the Deerfield Historical society and a supporter of the Constitution Park Arboretum. Trudy also served for several years as a volunteer to Red Cross both up north and at North Broward Hospital.

Mrs. Block was a lifelong member of the Methodist Church serving as president of Centenary Methodist W.S.C.S. in Binghamton, NY and Past President of the Trinity United Methodist Church in Lighthouse Point, and chairman of the Administration Board for some time at Trinity. Active Member of the Deerfield Beach Country Club where she enjoyed playing bridge with her many friends.

Survived by, Stepdaughter, Bonnie Fox and her husband Jack Kozuzako of Rockland, Il. Her brother Dean Holmes and his wife Joan of Deerfield, Fl. Daughter-in-law Nancy Holmberg Peterson and husband Gerald of Southern Pines, NC. Granddaughter, Linnette Holmberg Murray and husband Dan of Gettysburg, PA. Grandson Hans Holmberg of Wilmington NC. Great-grandchildren, Amie Murray and Aaron Murray of Gettysburg PA, Eric Holmberg and his wife Jennifer of Binghamton, NY. Great-great-grandchildren, Christian, Jonathan and Brooke Holmberg of Binghamton, NY, as well as several nieces and nephews.

Services at Forest Lawn Funeral Home Thursday September 8, 2011 at 11:00 am with a memorial service immediately afterward at 12:00 pm.