LaVonna Lou Bertelsmann

LaVonna Lou Bertelsmann, nee Crossley, 88 of Belleville , IL, passed away on Friday, November 22, 2024 at Mercy Rehab and Care Center in Swansea IL with her devoted family at her bedside. She was born on August 18, 1936 in Nevada MO the daughter of Stephen and Fadelma (Lesson) Crossley.

LaVonna was preceded in death by her dear husband, Don Bertelsmann, Sr. who passed away on May 7, 2022. Don and LaVonna were married on September 24, 1955 in Belleville IL and they shared 66 wonderful years of marriage.

Surviving are their two loving children, Sheri Sintzel (Joseph) of Swansea IL and Donald L. Bertelsmann, Jr. (Carrie Rowe) of St. Louis, MO, grandchildren, Joseph Sintzel (Carmelita) of Shiloh IL, Claire Petterson (Michael) of Smithton, IL, and Emily Hickman of Fairview Heights, IL; great grandchildren, Mallorie Lou Petterson of Smithton IL, and Jude Joseph Sintzel of Shiloh IL.

LaVonna was a dedicated and extraordinary stay at home mom while her children were young and later began her 25 year career as a salesclerk at Sears and Roebuck in the Sporting Goods and Toy department. LaVonna was a caregiver. Her biggest joy and number one priority in life was her family and taking care of them. She was devoted to her children and becoming a grandma was her proudest moment. She adored her grandchildren and lived long enough to enjoy her great grandchildren. LaVonna was rarely seen without a smile and it was at its brightest when she was with her family. Besides taking care of her family, LaVonna loved to read, paint, and sew, and her handiwork is cherished by her family. Her loss leaves a huge void, but her life and legacy will never be forgotten.

Smile though your heart is aching.

Smile even though its breaking.

When there are clouds in the sky, you'll get by.

If you smile through your fear and sorrow

Smile and maybe tomorrow

You'll see the sun come shining through for you.

Light up your face with gladness.

Hide every trace of sadness

Although a tear may be ever so near

Thats the time you must keep on trying.

Smile, what's the use of crying?

You'll find that life is still worthwhile

If you just smile.

The family would like express a sincere thank you to the nurses, CNA's , and staff at Mercy Rehab and Care Center for the tender loving care shown to LaVonna over the last seven years. LaVonna loved and appreciated the Mercy family and considered it an extension of her own. The care and devotion that was shown to her was truly exceptional.

Memorial donations may be sent to the Belleville Public Library or to the donor's choice.

A private family graveside service for LaVonna will be held Monday, December 2 at Lake View Memorial Gardens, Fairview Heights, IL. Pastor Ron Habermehl will officiate.