Gertrude Desmarais Elgersma Gertrude was born in Quebec City, Canada. She married Leo Desmarais and moved to 12 Brookline St. Goffstown, NH. She worked for Sanders Associates for many years. In 1999 she moved to Lakeland, FL and married Mel Elgersma on May 21, 2006. She resided in Lakeland for approximately 24 years. Because of failing health, she moved to St. Petersburg to be closer to her daughter Cecile. Gertrude resided at Aventura At The Bay for the last year of her life and passed away September 30, 2023 after a short illness. A giving heart and a strong work ethic is what we will always remember of the example she portrayed.

She was a member of St. Edmond Church in Pinardville, NH, attended First Methodist Church in Lakeland, FL, and attended Aventura At The Bay Chapel in St. Petersburg, FL. Gertrude enjoyed sewing, quilting, knitting, crocheting, Bingo and painting. She owned a ceramic and porcelain business for many years in NH. She also enjoyed playing shuffleboard.

Gertrude is survived by, daughter, Cecile Morgrage Bourque; son, Andre Desmarais; daughter, Denise Desmarais Greene; sons, Denis Desmarais, Ray Desmarais, Paul Desmarais, and Jean Desmarais; as well as 10 grandchildren and many great grandchildren. Leo Desmarais and Mel Elgersma (husbands) preceded her in death.

There will be a memorial mass in memory of Gertrude Desmarais Elgersma on November 12, 2023 at 11:00 am at Aventura At The Bay Chapel, 10401 Roosevelt Blvd. North, St. Petersburg, FL 33716. Contributions can be made to Aventura At The Bay Chapel, 10401 Roosevelt Blvd. North St. Petersburg, FL 33716