Bertha Fuller is a name recognized not only in Edmonton and Alberta but across Canada. A devoted community leader and volunteer, she pioneered opportunities for Alberta businesswomen and initiated numerous programs that benefited the community. She co-founded the award-winning weekly publication Camrose Booster and contributed significantly to provincial development projects. More on iedmonton.
Early Life of Bertha Fuller
Bertha Fuller was born on July 1, 1920, in Bitter Lake, Alberta, into a farming family. Growing up with her sisters, she was deeply involved in farm chores such as feeding chickens and collecting eggs while prioritizing her education. Encouraged by her parents, she excelled in academics despite her busy farm life.
After completing high school, Bertha aspired to attend medical college. However, being too young to enroll, she pursued business college instead. Her natural aptitude and passion for learning made the program manageable and rewarding.
Building a Career
In 1939, Bertha graduated from Camrose Lutheran College. A year later, she married William Fuller. By 1945, as her husband advanced in the Royal Canadian Air Force, Bertha returned to her hometown.
In 1952, the couple co-founded the free weekly newspaper The Camrose Booster, which quickly became a vital resource for the community. The paper was designed to support civic and volunteer organizations, establishing a family business that thrived under Bertha’s dedication.
Bertha balanced her responsibilities between family and the newspaper, often giving much of her time to ensure its success.
A Champion for Women and the Community
In the late 1960s, Bertha became the chairperson of the founding board of the Camrose Children’s Day Care Center, Alberta’s first public daycare. The center enabled women on maternity leave to return to work, providing support to thousands of families.
Bertha’s career continued to flourish as she developed literacy programs and worked tirelessly to improve the quality of life in the community. Her volunteer work focused on ensuring fair opportunities for women in business and public life.
As a self-proclaimed humanitarian, Bertha broke barriers as the first woman to serve on the Alberta Opportunity Company and the Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Board. She also served as the president of the Business and Professional Women’s Club.
In 1972, Bertha became the first woman elected as president of Alberta’s Chamber of Commerce and only the second in Canada. During her tenure, she chaired the Chamber’s education committee and promoted Camrose as a thriving community. Her guiding principle was always to be useful and think beyond personal interests.
Achievements and Recognition
Bertha Fuller’s dedication to service earned her numerous accolades, including the Alberta Centennial Medal and the Medal of Canada. In 1992, she was honored with the Outstanding Alumni Award from Augustana University College. Her work also earned her the Independent Free Papers of America’s Editorial Award and the Joseph M. Sklenar Award.
Bertha Fuller’s tireless efforts set a gold standard for women in Alberta. She became a role model for her community, demonstrating that it is possible to serve others while maintaining personal fulfillment.