Jack D. Bertschy
February 26, 1933 - September 20, 2005
Obituary
Jack D. Bertschy also know as “Tractor Jack” to his many friends and acquaintances passed away at the age of 72 peacefully at home, on September 20, 2005 surrounded by family. Jack was born on February 26, 1933 in Bentonville, Arkansas the 2nd son to Elsie and Carson Bertschy. He grew up in Bentonville and spent most of his youth on his “Ma & Pa’s” farm. He went to school in Bentonville, Arkansas. In 1953 Jack heeded Uncle Sam’s call to the Army and stayed until 1955. After leaving the army he spent several years driving long haul trucks across the country with his friend Don Adams. Deciding life on the road wasn’t for him, he settled in Peshastin, WA in 1963 where he went to work for Peshastin Fruit Growers. In 1965 he married Ruth Rudolph Whaley, moved to Seattle and had a son Donald Carson. They have lived here ever since. Jack went to work for Puget Sound Salvage and Equipment Company in 1965 where he worked until 1983. When he left Puget Sound Salvage Jack discovered his true calling and love – Restoring antique tractors. Tractor Jack was born! You could always find him in his shop, dressed in farmer’s overalls, working on tractors. If it had a motor – “Tractor Jack” could fix it. The children’s section of Woodland Park Zoo has a tractor that was restored and adapted for the zoo by “Tractor Jack” that has been, and will be, enjoyed by children for many years to come. Jack loved to spend time with Carson, when he was little, fishing and they spent many hours fishing for Rock Cod. Jack also had a love for vegetable gardening and every summer had wonderful vegetables to share.
He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Ruth, son Donald Carson of Seattle, stepdaughter Deborah Lewis & her husband Jay of Kent, WA, stepson John Whaley of Wenatchee, WA, Two grandkids, Jeremy Noerenberg & his fiancé Jody of Redmond, WA, & Brandi Pivar & her husband Michael of Sammamish, WA. He is survived by his brother Bill Bertschy & his wife Velta, nephew Allan, niece Shanna & her husband Rick, & great nephew Allan all of Springdale, Arkansas. Jack is also survived by lots of extended family, many neighbors and friends who love him and who will miss him dearly. A memorial service will be held at Bonney-Watson Funeral Home, 900 SW 146th St, Burien, WA 98166 October 12, 2005 at 2:00 p.m.
One of the things that I remember most about my Papa Jack besides his love of tractors is that he loved his dog, Yawny. Wherever Papa Jack was, Yawny was sure to be there, too. I’m sure wherever the two of them are, they are having fun together again. We love and miss Papa terribly. Love, Brandi and Michael
You will be missed Tractor Jack. Keep on Tinkering Old Friend.
You will be greatly missed,
Love,
Wanda
Ruth, I was sorry to hear of Jack’s passing. After Frank died I felt like half a person, and that I had lost part of myself. When you have lived with someone as long as you and Jack were togther it will take time to feel whole again. He will always be in your thoughts and still part of your life.
My thoughts and prayers are with you as you take this new journey.
Take Care,
Sharon Pokladowski
What a great man Jack was!!! He will be greatly missed. Always smiling and joking around! Many wonderful memories growing up next door to Jack. Driving his tractors around the block, cutting the hedge, braking the garage window with a baseball, driving his truck by the junk yard, shooting off firecrackers on the 4th of July, so many more memories! Thanks for all the great times we shared growing up! You will be missed Jack. Love…Erin
Papa Jack,
We miss you so much but we are happy that you are now pain free. Save us a spot in heaven. Love you.
Debbie
Words cannot express how much my family will miss uncle Jack’s zest for life. I am sure he is fixing tractors and gardening in heaven. I will miss his humor and laugh but know he is now resting peacefully and without pain. Keep your arms open and waiting for that hug you always gave. Love, Carol