Earl C. Bertsch, a lifelong resident, died Tuesday, September 17, 2024 at Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital, in Sayre, PA. He was 85.

The son of the late Charles and Gertrude Welsh Bertsch, he was born October 19, 1938 in Callicoon, NY.

Earl was the Chief Financial Officer for the Town of Liberty for 36 years. He previously worked for the Sullivan County Treasurer’s Office, Sullivan County Community College, and The Chester Cable Company. Earl was very involved in the community, serving as the treasurer for the For Faith Parish Council, East Cochecton Cemetery Association, Evergreen Cemetery Association, and the Lake Huntington Lake Association. He also served as chairman of the Town of Cochecton Planning Board for many years.

Earl enjoyed spending time outdoors on his gentleman’s farm, Bertsch Valley Farm. He was a lifelong horseman who owned several driving horses over the years. He, along with his wife Joy, were avid travelers who visited five continents and multiple countries.

Survivors include his wife, Joy Taylor Bertsch, at home, three children Jill Buday (Brian) of Cochecton, NY, Lori Bertsch of Honesdale, PA and Tim Bertsch of Slate Hill, NY; four grandchildren Alexa Buday, Taylor Brustman, Joseph Bertsch and Christopher Bertsch. He is also survived by his sister, Rose Marie Meyer and several nieces and nephews. 

Visitation will be Saturday, September 21, 2024 from 3 to 5 PM in the Harris Funeral Home, West Street at Buckley, Liberty, NY. Funeral Services will begin at 5 PM in the funeral home.

Burial will be in the East Cochecton Cemetery following services. Pastor Ginny Bosley will officiate.

Memorial contributions in Earl’s name may be made to the Lake Huntington Lake Association (c/o Mike Popolillo, P.O.Box 95 Lake Huntington NY 12752) or the Lake Huntington Presbyterian Church (c/o Vicky Krauss/clerk, PO Box 23, Lake Huntington, NY 12752).

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Harris Funeral Home West Street at Buckley, Liberty, NY 845-292-0001 or 845-439-5200 or www.Harris-FH.com.