Gertrude Wells

90 of Scottsdale, Arizona, passed away peacefully at home on November 23, 2013 surrounded by family and friends. She was born in Oppen, Germany to Pauline and Hans Gaida on July 18, 1923. Gertrude graduated from Hotel Management School and married in Berchtesgaden on December 10, 1949. She was preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, Rodney, her sister Magdalena, and her brother Rafael. She is survived by her daughter Anita Smith of Phoenix, her son-in-law Forrest, granddaughters Kimberly Nicole of Phoenix, Heidi Marie of Avondale and her husband Kevin, three great-grandsons; Kevin, Aiden, and Miles. Trudy and Rodney left Germany and were stationed in Bogota, Columbia from 1956 to 1960. Their next assignment was Williams AFB, AZ, where they resided in Chandler, AZ. When her husband retired from the Air Force, they moved to Scottsdale. Gertrude was a successful business woman, who built and managed the Papago Vista Apartments up until her passing. Gertrude's work ethic was as unmatched as her generosity. She never expected anything in return but believed the Lord would provide her with a long life. Strong-willed, loving, and compassionate, she was the centerpiece of her community and loved by all who knew her. Her green-thumb helped her to not only tend to her famous roses but to also find a place in all our hearts to grow and blossom. She would always say "Life is beautiful" and "Smile and the whole world will smile with you". Visitation will be held from 6pm to 8pm, Monday, November 25, 2013 with a Rosary starting at 7pm in Green Acres Chapel of Light. Funeral Mass will be held at 2:30pm, Tuesday, November 26, 2013 in Green Acres Chapel of Light located at 401 N. Hayden Rd. Scottsdale, AZ. www.greenacresmortuary.net