HAVERHILL: Gertrude W. (Walker) Wristen, 87, died Saturday, August 10, 2013, surrounded by her family in New Gloucester, Maine.
Born in North Andover on April 24, 1926, she was the daughter of the late John F. and Helena (Duffy) Walker. She was a graduate of Punchard High School in Andover, class of 1944. She has been a resident of Haverhill since 1985 and previously resided in Andover.
Gertrude worked as a security guard for the former AT&T in the Plant Protection Division until her retirement in 1989. She was a past member of the Raytheon Security Guards, Local #2 and the AT&T Pioneers of America. After retirement, Gertrude volunteered at Ruth’s House, where she was presented an award for her dedication, service and hard work.
Gertrude had many interests. She was an avid gardener who had a special love for poppies, peonies, roses and lilies. Gertrude also cherished and played the piano, which brought her great joy. She took pleasure in reading poetry and biographies. Her admiration for Amelia Earhart nurtured her adventurous spirit.
She is survived by her three daughters, Maureen and Annmarie Babicki and Catherine Zuckerman all of Maine; a son, Brian Babicki of Seabrook, NH; seven grandchildren; two great-grandchildren and several nieces, nephews and cousins. She was also predeceased by her sister, Rita Toomey and her two brothers, Lawrence Walker and Francis Walker.
A funeral Mass for Gertrude will be celebrated on Friday, August 16, 2013 in St. James Church, 161 Winter St., Haverhill at 10 a.m. Relatives and friends are cordially invited to attend. There are no visiting hours. Interment will be held in the Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in North Andover. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made in Gertrude’s name to the Ruth’s House, 111 Lafayette Sq., Haverhill, MA 01831.