Bertha J. Iwatsu

Bertha J. Iwatsu, 78, passed away July 6, 2025 after a brief illness. She was born September 11, 1946 to proud parents, Faustin and Jovita (Hernandez) Montoya and Pauline Montoya. All precede her in death along with her husband, Daniel Iwatsu Sr.; several brothers and sisters.

She retired from School Dist. #60, devoting many years of dedication in the Food service dept. Bertha enjoyed listening to music, playing bingo, going to Cripple Creek and vacations with her children. She was the matriarch of 4 generations. She loved sharing her life stories, lessons, words of wisdom and love with each of her family members. Her smile and personality always brightened up the occasion. Birthdays, Quinceanera’s, and Weddings, it was always about family to her.

Bertha is survived by her children, Andrea Iwatsu, Ilene (Joseph) Vallejos, Daniel S.N. (Melissa) Iwatsu Jr. and Nicole Iwatsu; 10 grandchildren, Nicole Iwatsu, Vincent Ortega, Trisha (Kenneth) Curtis, Jesse (Kristina) Nededog Jr., Daniel S.N. Iwatsu III, Kai Iwatsu, Leah M. Ortega, Dakota Boyd, Seth Santana and Drew Santana; 6 great grandchildren, Orion Charleigh and Jesse Jed Nededog, Malina Iwatsu, Baylee Curtis and Emilliano Roybal; sister, Stephie Vigil; several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who love and will miss Bertha.

Rosary, 10 am, and Funeral Mass to follow at 11 am, Mon., July 14, 2025 both at Sacred Heart Catholic Church-Avondale, 214 US-50 BUS, Avondale, CO. 81022. Interment, Lucero Cemetery, 64th Lane, Fowler, Colo.

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