Gertrude V. "Gertie" Fitch

Gertrude Viola Fitch (Rueger), 95, of La Crosse, WI, passed away peacefully at her home on November 20, 2025. Born to Herman and Elsie (Simmons) Rueger, Gertrude grew up on a farm in Antigo, where, instead of working outside like her siblings, she often stayed indoors to help her mother cook—planting the early seeds of the quiet, nurturing spirit she carried throughout her life.

Gertrude worked at the Stoddard Hotel as a line cook and at the Rubber Mills, affectionately known by her as “her old stomping grounds.” But most of all, she devoted her life to caring for children. As a lifelong babysitter and daycare provider from her own home, she touched countless lives, offering the stability, kindness, and gentle humor that made her so beloved in her community.

She enjoyed playing cards, reading romance novels, and doing crossword puzzles. She also found great joy in her garden—often spending peaceful hours among her morning glories and tending to her strawberry patch. Her yard was a reflection of her gentle spirit: simple, vibrant, and full of quiet beauty.

Gertrude welcomed everyone with open arms and a warm cup of coffee—always with hazelnut creamer. Though a woman of few words, she had a quiet wit that delighted those lucky enough to catch one of her jokes. If asked how she was feeling, she’d reply, “With my fingers,” and when asked what she wanted to do, she’d grin and say, “Spit in a shoe and pass it to you at half past two.” Her meek demeanor, sweet smile, and unmistakable spunk made her unforgettable. She was known for her delicious German potato salad and her anise Christmas cookies, cherished at every family gathering.

Gertrude is survived by her daughters Sandra Lewis (John) and Linda Fitch (Craig); her daughter-in-law Mary Fitch (Larry); and her many grandchildren: Julia Benson (Tom), Jessica Arttus, Laura Johnsrude (Tristian), Melisa Geiger (Jon), Tiffany VandeBrake (Rick), Jeremy Lewis (Nicole), Angela Johnson (Derek), and Aaron Johnson (Ceclia). She is further survived by her great-grandchildren: Kiersten Benson, Jake Arttus (Kelsey), Abby Brueggman, Noah, Grace, and Ava Johnsrude, Lydia and Taylor Geiger, Kaiden and Trygve VandeBrake, Jayman and Julian Hamilton, and Allison Lewis; and her great-great-grandchildren, Layne and Lennon Arttus.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Herman and Elsie Rueger; her husband, Darriel Fitch; her sons Larry and Dennis; her sisters Ida Kahn, Mary Henry, and Sharon Sinkler; and her brothers Harold, Herman, William, and Leonard Rueger.

Funeral services will be held Sunday, November 30, 2025, at Schumacher-Kish Funeral and Cremation Services, 200 West Ave S, La Crosse, WI 54601. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, followed by a service at 11:00 AM, with a luncheon to follow at the La Crosse American Legion Post 52, 711 6th St S, La Crosse, WI 54601.

A burial service will take place at 11:00 am on Saturday, December 6, 2025 at Elmwood Cemetery in Antigo, WI. 

Gertrude will be deeply missed by the many people whose lives she touched, and her legacy of kindness, humor, and steadfast love will be cherished always.