Obituary of Gloria Joan Wertheimer
Gloria Wertheimer, age 92, surrounded by her beloved family, peacefully departed to be with Our Lord. She is survived by her devoted husband of 66 years, Stanley Wertheimer, and cherished children: Mark Wertheimer (Elaine), Karen Wertheimer (Lisa), Krista Arnold (Tony), and Paul Wertheimer (Jennifer). Gloria's legacy extends to her adored grandchildren and great grandchildren: Aidan Barton, Emma Wertheimer, Christian Wertheimer (Sabrina) and daughter Kacey, Madeline Barton (Wesley), Grace Wertheimer, Norah Wertheimer, and Quinn Wertheimer, as well as her step-grandchildren Max and Wes Arnold (Andi) daughter Kaia Gloria, the youngest daughter of William and Lucy Kaestner, was preceded in death by her parents and her siblings: Frank Kaestner (Mary), Deedee Denton (Bob), Billy Kaestner (Buddy), Evelyn Nelson (Larry), Honey Martin (George), Grace Rae (Lloyd), Jean Masini (Johnny), Bobby Kaestner (Betty), and Chicky Kaestner (Fran), as well as numerous nieces and nephews. A Registered Nurse by profession, Gloria's early years were spent as a Charge Nurse at Nassau and Huntington hospitals. Known for her mastery in diagnosis, she often lent her expertise to diagnose family and friends, occasionally administering B12 or allergy shots or all too familiar "put a butterfly on it, you'll be fine!" exclamation, to those who probably needed a stitch or two. Glorias lifelong home was on Centerport Harbor, Long Island, NY where her heart found solace in the water outside her backdoor. She was known to extend the swimming season to any warm day above 60 degrees, regardless of water temperature, believing a good day equaled a good swim. Throughout her life, Gloria enjoyed boating and water skiing with Starsh, and her children.
In her later years, throughout the summer, she was a regular on the west end of Centerport Beach. Centerport held a special place in Gloria's heart, and she dedicated herself to preserving its natural beauty. Gloria was an original member and first President of the Centerport Civic Association. Gloria was a skilled negotiator, accomplishing goals many thought were nearly impossible. A fierce advocate for her beliefs, Gloria played a pivotal role in ensuring the preservation of the 13 acres of woods on the east side of Prospect Road, known today as Alvernia Park, and part of the county's "Forever Wild" program. She worked tirelessly to develop Grist Mill Park and Heron Park which was transformed from a parking lot. Today, residents and visitors alike are able to enjoy the beauty of Centerport. Gloria Wertheimer will be remembered for her unwavering dedication to her family, her community, and her hometown. Her legacy of love, compassion, and advocacy continue to inspire those whose lives she touched. The family would like to thank; extended family, friends, and neighbors for their support as well as the staff at Maryville – Enhanced Assisted Living Center for their care. A Funeral Mass will be held this summer at Our Lady Queen of Martrys, on a date still to be determined. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alzheimer's Association; The Little Shelter Animal Rescue and Adoption Center; Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Parish Social Ministries in Gloria's memory. Please visit the Nolan Funeral Home website at www.nolanfh.com for updated information and social media.
