Carl J. Bertelsen

Dennis, MA – Carl J. Bertelsen, 85, passed away on September 17, 2012 after a ten month illness. Born and educated in Germany, he served an apprenticeship in the food business, a vocation that would become his life’s work. Wanting a change, he left Germany in 1951 and relocated to the United States. He began working in his uncle's ice cream parlor, Bertelsen's, located in Whitestone, NY. There he met his first wife, Trudy, and they married in 1953. Shortly thereafter Carl bought his first delicatessen in Forest Hills, NY and continued his self-employment in that field until he retired in 1992. In 1989,he married his second wife, Rita and after their retirement they relocated to their favorite place, Cape Cod.

He was passionate about many things in his life, especially sailing with friends and family, tending his beautiful gardens, cooking delicious meals, and traveling near and far. There was never a shortage of German beer, wine, and spirits, as Carl was the perfect host. His home was always open for guests and he loved to entertain his family and many great friends. Carl was a member of the Mount Horeb Lodge A.F.&A.M. in Dennis, Trinity Lodge #12 in Oyster Bay, NY and the Coast Guard Auxiliary. He was known for his big smile, bright blue eyes, and firm handshake.

Both of Carl’s wives predeceased him. He leaves his daughters Karen Rouse and husband Stewart of Tarpon Springs, FL and Lynn Couto and husband Mark of Brewster, MA. He is also survived by his grandchildren, who he was so very proud of, Justin and Nicole Rouse and Timothy and Nicholas Couto. Carl also leaves his niece Magrit and her husband Michael of Germany.

The family would like to thank the staff of the Cobb Unit at Epoch of Brewster for the excellent and compassionate care that Carl received during his time spent there.

Visiting hours will be held on Thursday September 20, 2012, from 4-7 PM at the Doane Beal & Ames Funeral Home, 729 Rt. 134, S. Dennis, MA 02660. A Masonic service will be held in the funeral home on Thursday at 6 PM. The burial will be private. Donations in Carl'smemory may be made to Masonic Health System, PO Box 1000, Charlton, MA 01507 or the US Coast Guard Auxiliary (Nauset Flotilla 11-6) 1-877-875-6296