Gracelleen Opal “Grace” Wertenberger, 76, Hays, died Tuesday, June 4, 2024 at her home.
She was born July 4, 1947 in Ottawa, the daughter of James Ernest and Betty Jean (Caleb) Hollon. Grace grew up in eastern Kansas, graduated from cosmetology school, and for 20 years was a hairstylist in Colby. She was also a daycare provider for ten years, opening her heart and home to many children. On January 20, 2000 she was united in marriage to Donald Alan Wertenberger in Hays, and he preceded her in death on October 28, 2011. Grace was an avid and talented quilter.
Survivors include her three sons, David Hamilton and wife Anji of Norton, Daniel Wertenberger and wife Sara of Hays, and Caleb Wertenberger of Ellis, three daughters, Tamera Svanes and husband Dana of Kintyre, ND, Robin Lujan and husband Casey of Holcomb, and Nancy Daniel and husband Bill of Elizabeth, CO, a sister, Clio Elrod and husband Roger of Pomona, 17 grandchildren, and 12 great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Donald, two brothers, James and Richard Hollon, a sister, Patricia Markley, a granddaughter, Robin Colleen Hamilton, and a great granddaughter, Stormi Rose Isakson.
No services are scheduled at this time. Arrangements are in the care of Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and condolences and memories of Grace may be shared with her family at www.haysmemorial.com