Gertrude Mary (Proctor) Rocheleau

Gertrude (Proctor) Rocheleau, 97, of Cheboygan peacefully passed away December 4th. She was born August 29th, 1925 to Bert and Olive (Barr) Proctor in Cheboygan, Michigan. “Gerty” spent her life in Cheboygan and was a passionate ambassador for her hometown. Part of her life adventure was spending summers growing up on Round Island, as her father was the last island lighthouse keeper. She was proud of this unique aspect of her youth and was always happy to share her experience with others.

Gerty met Cyril Rocheleau and they wed in October 1950 at St. Francis Church in Alverno and were together for 55 loving years prior to Cy’s passing in 2006.

Gerty worked at Citizens National Bank early in her life and held many other positions through the years. She also owned and operated the Thread Mill Boutique clothing store in Cheboygan. After selling the store she provided continued support to mastectomy patients, touching many lives with her kind caring support.

Her favorite hobbies included baking, traveling, reading, crossword puzzles, chocolate (and more chocolate), family gatherings, and family history.

Gerty loved her grandchildren and they knew and cherished her love and warmth. She was fiercely proud of each and every one, whether they were blood related or “adopted” by friendships. She had become known as Great Grandma Gert, (aka “Triple G”).

She is survived by son, Mike (Marcia) Rocheleau, daughters; Patti (Bob) Spinella, Jane (Curtis) Chambers, Nancy (Steve) Kidder, daughter-in-law, Terri, 18 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, and on great-great grandchild.

She was preceded in death by her husband Cyril, son Edward, her parents and sisters; Mae Kortman and Shirley Barrette.

Visitation will be held at Nordman-Christian Funeral Home on Thursday, December 8th from 2:00pm - 4:00pm and 6:00pm - 8:00pm. A rosary and vigil service will begin at 7pm. The Funeral Mass will be held Friday, December 9th at 1:00pm at St. Mary’s/ St. Charles Catholic Church with family greeting friends one hour prior.

Gertrude's burial will take place on Wednesday, May 3rd at 1pm at Oak Hill Cemetery in Cheboygan. 

Memorial Contributions may be made to Bishop Baraga Schools or the Round Island Lighthouse Preservation Society.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gertrude Mary (Proctor) Rocheleau, please visit our floral store.