Alberta Marie Fine Obituary (1929 - 2024)

FINE, Alberta Marie (nee Riley), affectionately known to all as Berta, embodied the very essence of a life well-lived. On Monday, February 19, 2024, at the age of 94, Berta's earthly journey came to an end in her beloved hometown of Dayton, Ohio, the same place where her journey began on Tuesday, May 14, 1929. Her departure was one of peace, a natural conclusion to a tapestry of years woven with joy, resilience, and unyielding spirit. Berta's story is one that resonates with the power of kindness and the importance of serving others. After graduating from Kiser High School in 1947, she pursued a calling in healthcare at Good Samaritan Nursing School. Her career path, however, took a different turn, and Berta found herself excelling in various roles - from a diligent store clerk to a trusted bank teller, and finally, as an indispensable office coordinator with Nationwide Insurance, a position from which she retired at the tender age of 88. Berta's professional life was more than just a series of jobs; it was a testament to her belief in lifelong learning and adaptability. Beyond her professional pursuits, Berta was an active member of the American Business Women's Association for many years, where she not only shared her talents in numerous positions but also shone brightly as a beacon for others, culminating in her proud recognition as ABWA Woman of the Year. Her dedication to the association was a mirror to her own character - always striving for excellence and empowering other women along the way. The light of her life, however, was her family. Berta was the loving matriarch to her daughters Sharon (Steve) Rothrock, Pamela Avery, Melissa Kahle (Don Hugenberg), Shelli Fine (Kevin Stromp), and son Steven (Penny) Fine. Her guidance and love cascaded down to her 12 grandchildren, who cherished every moment with their Nana, and further flowed into the lives of over 20 great-grandchildren, who basked in the warmth and wisdom of Nana the Great. She was also a loving big sister to her siblings, Donna Riley and Jim Riley and dear aunt to many nieces and nephews. Berta's zest for life extended to her many interests. She was an adventurous soul who loved to travel with friends, a tradition that painted her life with vibrant hues of new experiences. Every Friday, she could be found playing dominoes with her dearest friends Barbara Piatt and Faye Seifrit, an echo of her playful spirit. She was a solitaire enthusiast, an avid reader and an eager spectator at performances held in the Schuster Center. Her faith found a home at Westminster Presbyterian Church, where she showed her love for the Lord, her family, church, and community. Her presence at family celebrations was not merely attendance but an infusion of love and optimism that made each gathering brighter. Berta's approach to life was spirited; she believed in the joy of the present and the promise of tomorrow. Her legacy is best captured by the words of American poet Maya Angelou, "Try to be a rainbow in someone's cloud." Berta was indeed that rainbow - an embodiment of hope and merriment in the lives of all who knew her. To describe Berta is to speak of love - an everlasting love that knew no bounds; to speak of spirit - a spirit so infectious that it lifted the hearts of those around her; to speak of optimism - an optimism that was the bedrock of her very being. She navigated life's highs and lows with grace and unwavering courage, inspiring those in her wake to do the same. Alberta Marie Fine's journey through life serves as a beacon of inspiration, a testament to the power of positive living, and an invitation to us all to embrace each day with love, laughter, and an optimistic heart. Her memory will continue to guide and uplift, a beautiful legacy of a life richly and joyously lived. Services will be held at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 125 N Wilkinson St, Dayton, OH on Tuesday March 5th at 11am with a luncheon to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Westminster Presbyterian Church Memorial Fund or Organ Fund in Alberta's name. Service & great care entrusted to Schlientz & Moore Funeral Home. ~May She Rest In Peace