Obituaries: Berta Cassel Moratto Swanson ( May 24 1921 – July 23, 2011)

Berta 90, passed away on July 23, 2011, in Crescent City. Born May 24, 1921, in Chiloquin, Ore., she was the daughter of Naomi Moore Cassel and Ernest Louis Cassel. Berta was a fifth-generation Oregonian descended from the founding family of Harrisburg, Ore. She was also a descendant of American patriots and Hessian mercenaries who fought on opposing sides during the Revolutionary War. Married (1941) to Major J. Moratto (d. 1976).

Berta is survived by her children, Michael J. Moratto (Kathleen), John E. Moratto (Sharon, deceased), Theresa A. Moratto Kalata (Stan), and Lawrence A. Moratto (Kathy). Nine grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, a twin sister Betty Cassel Swanson Blogdon, and a nephew David J. Dodge (Vicki).

She was predeceased by husband Major J. Moratto, second husband Kirby W. Swanson, and sister Patricia Cassel Dodge Sinclair.

Services will be private.  Memorial donations may be sent in Berta’s name to the Del Norte County Historical Society Museum, 577 H Street,  Crescent City, CA  95531

Arrangements are under the direction of Wier’s Mortuary Chapel.

— Submitted by Wier’s Mortuary Chapel