Avrea (Rachel) Bertelsen

Friday, Apr. 29, 2022

Born August 24, 1945, one of God’s earthly angels gained her wings on April 12, 2022.

Born to Manuel and Vicenta Gurule in La Puente, New Mexico, Rachel was the fifth of nine children, who in childhood formed a special bond that continued long into their adult years. This special bond was enhanced by numerous nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly.

A devout Catholic, she considered becoming a nun. Instead, Rachel was swept off her feet when she met her lifelong sweetheart Kent A. Bertelsen. After a brief courtship, the two married on November 23, 1963. Their 54-year marriage ended in 2018 when Kent preceded her in death.

The Bertelsens welcomed a daughter and two sons to the family, Angela, Kent and Micheal (Rashel). Kent and Rachel were blessed with eight grandchildren, Avrea, Antonio, Tres, Miranda, Ta’mya, Kaity Jace and Ryker, and 11 great-grandchildren. She dearly loved and adored her family.

For many years, Rachel worked in the shoe department at Kmart, where she made and nurtured lifelong friendships. She loved spending time at Snowbird and her travels included many trips to Mexico. Being a devoted fan of Elvis, one of her favorite trips was to Tennessee which included a tour of Graceland. She loved to share the story of seeing Elvis perform in concert and scoring one of his coveted scarfs!

She cherished life and was always a delight to be around even as she endured many health challenges these last several years. Requiring dialysis several days a week for seven and a half years was a daunting challenge she faced courageously. The family would like to thank the staff at Intermountain Medical Center Dialysis Services. Rachel grew to love her caregivers and fellow patients.

A loving wife, mother, grand- and great-grandmother, sister and friend, Rachel fought with courage and grace, her last days surrounded by family and friends. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

Preceded in death by her loving husband Kent, her father and mother Manuel and Vicenta Gurule, sisters Edna, Maria Stella and Bennita, brothers Alonzo, Richard and Louie. We find comfort knowing that she is reunited with so many loved ones on the other side.

A funeral Mass was celebrated April 18, 2022, at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church Salt Lake City. Interment followed at Valley View Memorial Park.