Bertha Margaret Kief, 88, of Paxton passed away at 12:35 p.m. Saturday, November 25, 2017, at Accolade Healthcare of Paxton Senior Living.

Private services will be held with Rev. Debra Domeier officiating. Burial will be in Glen Cemetery, Paxton. Baier Family Funeral Services, Paxton is handling arrangements.

Bertha was born December 30, 1928 in Sibley the daughter of Henry Emil and Christine Elsie Schmidt Molck. She married Elmer Harley Kief February 17, 1947 in Peoria. He preceded her in death May 14, 1992.

She is survived by two sons, Duaine E. (Ann) Kief of Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, Elmer E. (Karen) Kief of rural Rankin; a daughter, Sandi (Norm Sparr) Kief of Champaign; nine grandchildren; several great grandchildren; one sister, Dorlyn (Armand) Ditman of Rockford and one brother, Glen M. Molck of Rockford.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Norman H. Molck, Gordon H. Molck and two sisters, Florine E. Hewitt and Eunice R. Molck.

Bertha grew up on a farm and after her marriage, continued to farm hand-in-hand with her husband. She was a very active member of the First Lutheran Church, Paxton which included the "Smokin' Fingers" group. She had also served as a Button Twp. Election Judge.

She was very involved with her children's activities and enjoyed sewing, cooking, gardening and canning.

Memorials may be made to First Lutheran Church, Paxton or Accolade Healthcare of Paxton Senior Living formerly Illinois Knights Templar Home. Condolences may be offered at www.baierfuneralservices.com.