AUGUSTA -- Gertrude Ethelyn Keppler, born June 21, 1922, in Bucksport, passed away from stomach cancer the evening of Oct. 7, 2012, in Augusta, surrounded by her family and friends love. Gerty was a strong Mainer through and through with only two speeds, 'fast' and 'faster.' Known for her immaculate home, and her ability to grow the biggest garden and have the whitest white laundry in town, she was also very active as one of Jehovah's Witnesses for more than 63 years. She delighted in telling everyone she met all about her dearest friend, Jehovah, and her hope for a better tomorrow. She believed in the promises from the Bible, especially the resurrection, and frequently wondered aloud what it would be like living in a paradise Earth sometime in the near future. With her husband of almost 50 years, Harold Hersom, she raised two children, Steven and Marion. She is predeceased by her first love and husband, Harold; and her second husband and kind companion, Ted Keppler. She is also predeceased by her parents, Etta and Lincoln Quinn; and her siblings Reynold, Hazel, Stewart and Chester. She is survived by her beloved sister Avis and husband Ancel King, of Alachua, Fla.; son Steven and wife Sarah Hersom, of Pelham, N.H.; and her daughter, Marion, and husband Dennis Hendrickson, of Brooksville, Fla. Her grandchildren and their spouses also survive her, Irene and John McGonagle, of Owls Head, Lisa and Shawn Sureck, of Thomaston, Steven and Heather Hersom, of Goffstown, N.H., Anthony and Sabrina Coco, of Whitefield, Halli and Jeff King, of Scarborough, and Frank and Erin Coco, of Augusta. She is also survived by 11 great-grandchildren, who had the privilege of knowing her. Gerty's family was everything to her. The family is especially thankful for the tireless support of Capitol City Manor, HealthReach Hospice and the local friends from the Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses in Augusta. The family additionally wishes to express their gratitude to Terri Grant whose kindness, hard work, devotion and love in taking care of Gerty right down to the end was most appreciated. A memorial service will be held on her behalf at 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 27, 2012, at the Kingdom Hall for Jehovah's Witnesses, 36 Eastern Ave., Augusta. Arrangements are in the care of Knowlton & Hewins Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 1 Church St., Augusta. Memories, condolences, photos and videos may be shared with the family at www.khrfuneralhomes.com