Gertrude Kay Ellenberger

Gertrude Kay (Obenour) Ellenberger, lovingly known as Gert, passed away with her devoted husband, Walt by her side. Born on September 27,1937, to Joseph and Kathleen Obenour, she grew up in Carnegie and Robinson Township, Pennsylvania, where she was the youngest of six children. She shared a special bond with her beloved sister, Joan Stein, and treasured the love of her entire family throughout her life. As a young woman, Gert was known for both her beauty and her vibrant spirit. She was honored as May Queen of Carnegie High School and was the head majorette. After graduating from high school, Gert attended modeling school and always remembered her modeling days fondly. Beyond these accolades, she possessed a confidence, spice and energy that would define her throughout her life. In 1956, at West View Dance Land, she met the love of her life and soulmate, Walter H. Ellenberger Jr. From that moment on, there was never another man. They shared an extraordinary love and 69-year marriage built on unwavering love, devotion, laughter and partnership. Walt was truly the one and only love of her life. Together they created a beautiful family and a legacy that will live on for generations. Gert was loving mother to Walter H. Ellenberger 111(Wife Valerie), Beth E. Fox (Husband Michael) and Heidi B Ellenberger. Nothing brought her greater joy than spending time with her children, all of whom were the pride of her life. She is lovingly remembered by her grandchildren: Emily Seng (Husband Heath), Natalie Hill (Husband Joe), Madeline Krebill (Husband Colter), Rowan Walter Jones and Pippa Beth Jones; and by her great-grandchildren, Luch Seng, Graham and Cameron Hill, whom she dearly loved and delighted in watching them grow. Gert had a beautiful singing voice that brought joy to those around her, but those who knew her best will remember her fiery spirit just as much. She never hesitated to stand up for the underdog, and speak up for what she believed was right, or lend a helping hand to someone in need. It was not unlike Gert to comfort a crying child she had never met or stop to help a stranger. Her compassion came naturally and she left everyone she encountered feeling a little more seen and a little more loved. She was a devoted Pittsburgh Steelers fan, cheering faithfully through every season and never losing hope in her team, no matter the score. We will all miss the way she made every holiday and birthday feel extraordinary. She had a remarkable gift for celebrating life’s special moments, filling each occasion with warmth, laughter, thoughtful traditions and unconditional love. She made every family gathering feel magical and the traditions she created will be cherished for generations. May her memory be a blessing. A Celebration of Life will be held in the Pittsburgh area; time and date to be announced. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the family’s beloved charity, Warrior Community Connect: warriorcommunityconnect.com/donate.

Gertrude Kay Ellenberger

September 27, 1937 - July 1, 2026