Gertrude H. Holthaus

Gertrude Helen Holthaus, 94, fondly known as Gertie, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at Aviston Countryside Manor. She was born on August 31, 1931, in rural Carlyle at the family home, the daughter of John William and Marie Stella, nee Borgelt, Diekemper. She married Victor G. Holthaus July 19, 1955, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Carlyle and he preceded her in death on August 13, 2000.

Gertie is survived by her children, Helen (Gary) Renschen of Carlyle, Ruthie (Jim) Markus and Marilyn (Joe Lampe) Holthaus of Aviston, and George (Gina) Holthaus of Carlyle; her grandchildren, James (Cheryl) Renschen, Curt (Nichole) Renschen, Julie (Billy) Glasscock, Sara (Travis) Trame, Carrie (Neal) Beckmann, Matthew (Beth) Markus and Markus (Amanda) Kania; 18 great-grandchildren; and brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Julius & Kathy Holthaus, Elmer Holthaus, Virgil & Peggy Holthaus, Lois Holthaus, Linda Holthaus, and Eugene Brueggemann.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her siblings, Virgil Diekemper, his first wife Dorthy (Jansen) Diekemper, and later second wife Jane (Leroux) Diekemper, Louis Diekemper, Margie (Vincent (Sparky) Johnson, and Marie (Bob) Anthony; her in-laws Louis and Cecelia, (Kampwerth) Holthaus; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Robert Holthaus (in infancy), Florence and Clarence Hammer, Edward and Edna Holthaus, Lucille Holthaus, Richard Holthaus, Paul (Punt) Holthaus, Kathryn (Dolly) Holthaus, Louis (Peep) Holthaus, Jr., Andy Holthaus, and Betty Ann Brueggemann.

Gertie dedicated herself to her family as a homemaker and found joy in contributing to the local community in various ways. Her involvement included helping with lunches at Central High School, where she nourished not just the students but also their spirits. Gertie played an essential role in providing funeral lunches at the Beckemeyer Legion, offering comfort and support during difficult times.

Outside of her service to the community, she had a passion for quilting, creating beautiful pieces that will be cherished by those who were fortunate enough to receive them. Gertie was also an avid sports fan, especially when it came to watching St. Louis Cardinals baseball. Mondays were particularly special for her as she gathered with friends to play Bunko at St. Anthony's, sharing laughter and friendly competition. Gertie was also an active member of St. Anthony’s Parish and altar sodality as well as the St. Anthony's picnic raffle group, where she continued to build connections and friendships.

Visitation will be held from 9 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Beckemeyer.

Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Beckemeyer with Rev. Chuck Tuttle officiating. Burial will follow at St. Anthony’s Cemetery in Beckemeyer.

Memorials may be made in memory of Gertie to the Alzheimer’s Association, American Heart Association, St. Anthony’s Cemetery, or to the charity of the donor’s choice, and will be received at the church or Nordike Funeral Home, 740 Fairfax St., Carlyle, IL 62231 who is serving the family.

Gertie leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication that will be cherished by her community and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her contributions and passions will be remembered fondly as we reflect on a life well lived.