Gertrude May VanVolkenburgh, 83, of Buckhannon, passed away peacefully at home under the compassionate care of WVU Medicine Hospice on Monday, June 20, 2022.

She was born on November 26, 1938, in Rochester, NY, a daughter of Edward Charles Sr. and Eleanora Mary Koehler Thomas.

When she met Fletcher “Lee” VanVolkenburgh, Gertrude met the love of her life and lifelong companion. The two were married on August 3. 1968. After Lee’s passing on March 11, 2019, she missed him dearly and will be elated to be reunited.

Gertrude is survived by two children: Donna Lowe of Trinity, NC, and Ann Coffey of Buckhannon; one daughter-in-law, Debra Gaudioso; sixteen grandchildren: Toni, Allan, Hillary, Samantha and husband, Eric, Kendrick, Owen, Jeremy, Rebecca, Susie, Roger III, Heather, Jason, Tracy, Eric, Krystal, and Stephanie; fifteen great-grandchildren: Christian, Hannah, Peyton, Ashley, Kenzie, Jayden, Alison, Adalee, Alexander, Marley, little John, Ariana, Landen, Rylee, and Emmy Lou; one brother, Raymond Thomas Sr. and wife, Linda, of Fort Meyer, FL; and several step-great-grandchildren.

Along with her parents and husband, Gertrude was greeted at Heaven’s Gate by one son, David Gaudioso; three sisters: Rosemary Jaczynski, Gloria Gabic, and Arlene Tavernier; one brother, Edward Thomas Jr.; and infant brother, Harvey Thomas.

Gertrude was an in-home babysitter for fourteen years in Ocoee, FL, a hotel housekeeper in Rochester, NY, and a homemaker, wife, and mother. She was a Roman Catholic by faith. Gertrude loved to travel. Her favorite beach was Coca-Beach in Florida. In her early years, she loved to dance and play cards.

Gertrude’s request for Cremation has been honored and a Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date.

We, at Clutter Funeral and Cremation located at 21 Elnora Circle in Buckhannon, are honored and privileged to serve the family of Gertrude May VanVolkenburgh. Online condolences may be expressed at www.ClutterFuneralHome.com.