Gertrude A. Becherer (nee Kasmarzik), 88, of Columbia, died July 9, 2015, at home with her family at her side.

She was born Jan. 31, 1927, in Fairview Heights, daughter of the late John and Anna Kasmarzik (nee Blanke).

She married Melvin Becherer Sr., Nov. 26, 1947, in O’Fallon; he survives her.

She was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Columbia. She enjoyed cooking, quilting, taking care of her home and family, and treasured time spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Along with her husband, she is survived by her children Melvin (Darlene) Becherer, Jr. of Columbia, Nancy DeFabio of Columbia and Daryl (Ann) Becherer of Dupo; grandchildren Lori (Perry) Buss, Leonard (Julie) DeFabio IV, Jean Becherer, Scott (Peggy) Becherer, Mike (Diane) Becherer, Mark (Jennifer) Becherer and Crystal Becherer; 15 great-grandchildren; and other relatives and friends.

She was also preceded in death by her sisters Ottie Becherer and Johanna Werner and brothers Paul and Richard Kasmarzik.

Visitation will be Tuesday, July 14, from 9 to 11 a.m., at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Columbia.

A Funeral Mass will celebrated July 14, at 11 a.m., following the visitation, with Fr. Carl Scherrer officiating.

Interment will follow in the St. Paul Lutheran Cemetery, Columbia.

As an expression of sympathy, the family prefers memorial contributions to Hospice of Southern Illinois, 305 So. Illinois St., Belleville, IL 62220; Mederi Home Health Care, 216 W. Pointe Dr., Ste. D, Swansea, IL 62226; or in the form of Masses.

For more information, please access our website, www.LawlorFuneralHome.com.