Gertrude A. Taylor

Gertrude A. Gertie Taylor, age 87, of Lancaster, passed away on Monday, June 6, 2011, at the Lancaster Care Center in Lancaster. She was born on July 23, 1923, in Beetown Township, the daughter of Fred and Emma (McNeilly) Gates. Gertrude attended Muscallounge Grade School and also Lancaster High School. On July 7, 1941, she was united in marriage to Alfred Taylor in Dubuque, Iowa. Together they farmed in Grant County until retirement in 1980. Gertie was an avid collector and enjoyed antique auctions. She also enjoyed playing cards and traveling with her husband. Gertie was a member of the Lancaster United Methodist Church and a past member of the Little Grant Saddle Club, 4-H Club, and Cow Bells.

Survivors include her children: Cheryl (Donald) Skaife, Livingston; Richard (Judith) Taylor, Lancaster; five grandchildren: Troy Knapp, Justin (Tamara) Knapp, Steve (Lisa) Taylor, Kathy (Ricky) Bruce, and Duane (Wendy) Taylor; six great grandchildren; a sister, Leanore Baker, Madison; other relatives and many friends.

In addition to her parents, Gertie was preceded in death by her husband, a brother, Joseph Gates and a sister, Donna Gates.

Funeral services were held on Friday, June 10, 2011, at 10:30 a.m. at the Lancaster United Methodist Church with Pastor Barbara Cook officiating. Burial was in Dodge Cemetery, Beetown Township. Family and friends called on Thursday, June 9, 2011, at Martin Funeral Home in Lancaster from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. and on Friday from 9:30 a.m. until time of services at the church.