Robert L. & Marina Bertram, of Ashby

Ashby-Robert L. Bertram, 85, of Ashby, passed away Saturday morning, March 21, 2026 at Health Alliance Leominster Hospital. Bob was born in Lynn, on May 26, 1940, a son of the late Melvin E. and Leona M. (MacGown) Bertram. He graduated from Saugus High School in 1957 and received his degree in chemical engineering from Northeastern University in 1961 and later his master’s degree in chemical engineering from the Carnegie Mellon University. Bob worked as a chemical engineer in the petroleum industry for Texaco and later Saudi Aramco, traveling all over the world throughout his career. In 1973 he moved to Ashby and went to work as a postal clerk for the Groton Post Office until his retirement in 2005. Bob lived in active and purposeful life, always happiest outdoors or working with his hands. An avid athlete, he completed marathons, enjoyed cycling vacations throughout Europe, and spending time sailing. Resourceful and hard-working, he built a garage himself in the early 1980s - a structure that still stands today as a testament to his skills and determination. Bob never found a book he didn’t want to read, or a skill he didn’t want to learn. In retirement, he found great satisfaction in caring for his property by clearing dead trees, maintaining trails and staying connected to the land he loved. Bob also had a creative and thoughtful side, often writing poems for special occasions and sharing words of wisdom with family and friends. He took great joy in teaching his many skills to anyone who wanted to learn, always generous with his knowledge and encouragement. His energy, independence, kindness, and dedication will be remembered by all who knew him. He leaves his devoted and loving wife of 42 years, Marina L. (Smart) Bertram of Ashby; two sons, Michael Bertram, wife, Barbara and son Daniel of Ashby and Richard Bertram and his partner Elaine Garlington of Texas; a niece Marina MacAlleson and great nephew Grayson, a sister Laurel Bertram-Bissonnette & Steven of Maine, and his brother, Melvin Thomas and Paula Bertram of Lunenburg, and sister in law Julie Bertram of Lunenburg; and three grandchildren, Peyton, Benjamin and Lucas Bertram of Texas. He is predeceased by his son, David Bertram, who passed away in 2013 and two brothers, Donald Bertram and James Bertram. ~~~~~~~~~~ Ashby - Marina Louise (Smart) Bertram, 70, of Ashby passed away on Friday evening, May 1, 2026 in her home surrounded by love, solace and family. Marina was born in Portsmouth, VA on February 6, 1956, a daughter of the late Jan and Constance (Troutman) Smart. She spent her early adulthood establishing her career in California, where she met and married the love of her life, Robert L. Bertram. They travelled the world together for many years enjoying adventures before settling down in Ashby where she retired and has resided ever since. Prior to her retirement Marina worked as an executive assistant for Fidelity Investments. Marina lived with quiet strength, grace and an adventurous spirit that carried her across the world and straight into the hearts of all who knew her. A peaceful and stoic soul, she found joy in life’s simple beauties - running, cycling, swimming, yoga and traveling to new places with curiosity and wonder. Marina moved through life with both refinement and humility, embracing each day with a calm determination and resilient heart. Above all she deeply cherished her great nephew Grayson, whose presence brought her happiness and laughter. Her love was a legacy of serenity and compassion. Marina was predeceased by her husband, Robert L. Bertram who passed away in March of this year and her sister Toni Sivula (Smart). She leaves a niece, Marina MacAlleson, and son, Grayson MacAlleson of Ashby and a brother-in-law, Robert Sivula of Ashby.

Tributes

Robert L. & Marina Bertram, of Ashby

March 21, 2026 - May 1, 2026