Bertha Preheim: 1937-2023

Bertha Preheim was born on May 4, 1937 to Herbert and Annie (Engel) Mehlhaff in Hutchinson County, South Dakota. Her younger years were spent growing up in the Kaylor, S.D. area where she learned how to be a very hard worker at a young age.

On Valentine’s Day in 1960 she met Robert L. Preheim. The two were united in marriage on Aug. 7, 1960. Three children were born to this union: Scott, Steve, and Kenna.

In 1963, they moved onto the family farm and began their life as full-time farmers until 1982. After farming mom took on a number of jobs in town. Hard work was no obstacle for our mom. She took great pride in her very large garden and canned everything she could from what she grew. She loved nature and working outside. She also spent a great deal of time sewing and as she grew older many quilts were completed by herself.
This spirited lady was called to her Heavenly home on April 4, 2023, exactly one month short of her 86th birthday. Left to cherish her memory are her children: Scott Preheim, Steve Preheim and Kenna (Tony) Dewald; her twin grandsons: William Preheim and Charles Preheim; her sisters Elvira Friederich and Neoma Kaufman; and a host of special nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Proceeding her in death are her husband, Robert L. Preheim; her parents; brothers: Howard and wife Clarine Mehlhaff, Alvin Mehlhaff and Richard Mehlhaff; her sister, LaVella and husband Johnny Kaufman; and brother-in-laws: Menno Kaufman and Ray Friederich.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, June 24 at 3 p.m. at Walter Funeral Home in Freeman with visitation beginning at 2 p.m.