Obituary of Bertha Ceideburg

Bertha was born in Mexico, later a resident of Santa Cruz. Bertha learned to be self-reliant at an early age as both her parents and grandparents passed away while she and her siblings were still teenagers. Bertha and her brother and sisters cared for each other, continued on in their schooling, worked hard and made a life for themselves. Later, after starting her career in Administration, Bertha met Paul as he was on his way to Mexico City on vacation. Paul was lost, and stopped to ask Bertha for help. It was love at first sight. He was so enamored with Bertha, he never made it to Mexico City, but vacationed in Bertha's home town instead. Six months later the two were married and Bertha followed Paul to the U.S. In 1967, their son John was born. In 1979, Paul passed away, leaving Bertha to manage the affairs of the home and a child by herself. After a period of healing, Bertha went to work as a Teacher's Assistant at an Elementary School. She also worked for Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation Department. Later, she went on to work for La Familia Center to help women break out of the cycle of domestic violence. Bertha was also considered part of the family of Santa Cruz Bible Church. She volunteered and served with great enthusiasm, she helped prepare meals mid-week, and prepped crafts for Children's Ministries. She was also a regular member of the Knit Wits; a wonderful group of women who knit scarves, hats, shawls, etc. and donate them or their proceeds to worthy charities to bless others. Bertha loved the teaching at SCBC at both the Sunday Services and the Primetime classes and faithfully attended every week. The church was truly her community. Bertha went to be with the Lord, Jesus Christ, the morning of September 6, 2013. She is survived by her son John Ceideburg, and grandchildren, Daniel and Lily, both of Santa Cruz. She was preceded in death by her sister Lucina. A celebration of life will be held for Bertha at Santa Cruz Bible Church, 440 Frederick St. Santa Cruz, CA, on Saturday, September 14, beginning at 11am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Santa Cruz Bible Church Children's Ministry or the Knit Wits, 440 Frederick St. Santa Cruz, CA 95062