Bertha Marie Mette, 86, of Effingham, passed away at 3:15 p.m. on Tuesday, September 22, 2009 at Lakeland Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center in Effingham.

Bertha was born on January 16, 1923 in rural Sigel, the daughter of Joseph W. and Theresia (Kollmeyer) Kabbes. She married George H. Mette on May 21, 1949 and they were blessed with 7 children.

She was a homemaker, loving mother and wife, who enjoyed flower gardening, family history, music and reading. She was a member of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, the St. Anthony Council of Catholic Women and the American Legion Auxiliary.

She is survived by her devoted husband; sons, John J. (wife, Chris) of Teutopolis, Robert P. (wife, Stacia) of Effingham, William G. (wife, Carmel) of Effingham, Richard C. (wife, Pauline) of Teutopolis; daughters, Maria T. (husband, Michael) Klitzing of Beecher City, Martha A. of St. Louis, MO; 19 grandchildren; and 4 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Raymond J. Kabbes; son, James J.; and infant grandchild, Elizabeth.

The Funeral Mass was held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 26, 2009, at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church with Monsignor Leo Enlow officiating. Visitation was from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Friday at the Church, with a CCW rosary at 4:30 p.m. and a parish wake service at 7:00 p.m. Bauer Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Memorials may be made to St. Anthony Schools or Church.