David Francis Bertrand

David Francis Bertrand, 82, of Cranford, NJ, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, April 21, 2023, in Elkhart, Indiana. David was born on April 24, 1940, in Cleveland, OH, to the late David and Frances (Begley) Bertrand. On December 29, 1962, in Cleveland, OH, David married the love of his life, Arlene Stalker.

David is survived by his loving wife of 60 years; children, Laura (Thomas Bebout) Bertrand of Fanwood, NJ, Julia (Greg) Meyer of Shaker Heights, OH, and Mark (Harmony) Bertrand of Cranford, NJ; grandchildren, Samuel (Olivia Mendes) and Maddie Bebout, Trent and Grace Meyer, and Liam and Delaney Bertrand; beloved kitty cats, Butterscotch, Temple, Phoebe, and Kyla; and a loving host of extended family, friends, coworkers, and acquaintances.

David was preceded in death by his parents, and siblings, John and Patricia Bertrand.

In accordance with David’s wishes, cremation has been chosen and he will be interred at Cedar Grove Cemetery at the University of Notre Dame. A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, July 15, 2023, at 11 AM, at Cedar Grove Cemetery’s Chapel with inurnment and military honors following. Billings Funeral Home of Elkhart has been assisting the family with arrangements.

David attended St. Ignatius High School in Cleveland, OH and proudly graduated from the University of Notre Dame in June of 1962 with a bachelor’s degree in business. He went on to work for Deloitte, Haskins, and Sells as a Certified Public Account and international tax specialist. He excelled in his work, being an attentive and conscientious man who truly had a passion for what he did. David also proudly served in the U.S. Army, in the 3 D Battalion, 70th Armor 24th Infantry Division as a 1st Lieutenant from 1963 and 1965 in Munich, Germany where he manned and commanded tanks.

During his military affairs and work life, David and his family had the opportunity to travel to places all across the world, particularly memorable trips being Germany, Switzerland, and New Zealand. He enjoyed having the chance to see new things and meet new people all while in the company of those he loved.

David was also a devout Catholic and attended the Church of Saint Anne in Garwood, NJ. It should be mentioned that no matter where he ended up on his travels, he always made sure to make time for church on Sundays and Holy days. His faith was a central part of his life and he always wanted to honor that.

David enjoyed spending time at the Pocono home puttering and playing golf. Hilton Head Island was his favorite golf and relaxing destination. He also enjoyed playing tennis and paddle ball from time to time. David was an avid Fighting Irish fan and attended as many home football and hockey games as he could, enjoying being able to spend time with friends and family at his beloved alma mater. The Bertrand family took delight in tailgating together for the games and David will always be remembered for making his famous breakfast sandwiches.

When sports seasons wound down, David tapped into his interest and love for cars. He was a handyman at heart and loved all kinds of cars, such as his Volkswagen he brought back from Germany, his family’s conversion van for vacationing, and the Porsche that he loved. 

David was a man of many accomplishments. He was sociable, outgoing, and a curious person, never having met a stranger no matter where he travelled to and always wanting to learn new things. He will be remembered most for being a loving family man and friend, someone who was always interesting and fun to talk to and would always lend a helping hand. David will be dearly missed by those whose hearts he has touched throughout his life.

Memorial donations may be made to: Ignatius.edu/give. Please designate your donation to The Bertrand Family Scholarship Fund, St. Ignatius HS, 1911 W. 30th St., Cleveland, OH 44113.

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