From "HISTORY OF THE UPPER OHIO VALLEY,"  Vol. I, pages 222-223.
Brant & Fuller, 1890.

 
LOUIS BERTCHY

Louis Bertschy, junior member of the firm of Frew & Bertschy, was 
born in Wheeling, March 25, 1857, the son of Michael Bertschy, a 
native of France, who was reared in France and came to the United 
States in 1854, locating at Wheeling, W. Va.  Michael Bertschy's 
death occurred in April, 1889, he having reached the advanced age of 
eighty-seven years.  His widow is Barbara (Schenk) Bertschy, who was 
born in Germany in 1823.  She is now residing in Wheeling.  The son 
attended the public schools, of Wheeling.  After leaving school he 
entered the furniture house of John Arbenz, in November, 1869.  
Remaining with Mr. Arbenz until 1877, he then became connected with 
Hubbard & McBurnie, with whom tie remained for two years, at the 
expiration of which time he returned to Mr. Arbenz.  While with the 
latter, Mr. Bertschy saw that a demand existed for a skilled 
embalmer, there being no one in the city competent to perform this 
difficult task.  Determining to fit himself for this very important 
work, he went to Cincinnati in July, 1882, and took a thorough course 
of instruction in embalming, receiving a certificate for proficiency 
in the art.  In 1885 the firm of Frew & Bertchy was formed, and this 
house has since carried on a very extensive business in furniture, 
carpets and undertaking.  Mr. Bertchy is undoubtedly the most 
skillful embalmer in the state.  He is a member of the Zion Lutheran 
Benevolent society and also of Alpha lodge, K. of H.  Miss Mary 
Williams, of Wheeling, became his wife in the year 1886, and one son 
has been born to them. 


(Linda Fluharty)