Obituary of Bertha M. Hinrichs

Bertha May Hinrichs (nee Langert) was born on July 9, 1940 to Andrew and Bertha Langert in Astoria, Queens. Midge was the nickname her dad gave her when she was born. Also known fondly as “Ber, Aunt Midgie, Old Bird, Ma, mom, Grandma, and Gigi. Midge grew up in Queens, New York, moved to Freeport as a teenager and met the love of her life at the young age of 15. Midge married Henry “Sonny” Hinrichs on March 19th, 1960 at Cure of Ars Church in Merrick, New York. After living for a short time in Lindenhurst, the young couple went on to North Merrick where they bought a home and started a family. Sonny and Midge were married for 59 years until Sonny passed. Midge remained in that home until her passing on July 3, 2025. Midge was a meticulous homemaker who always made her house a “home” She was a supportive wife to Sonny and a loving mother to Michael and Dawn. When her children were older, she ventured out to work in the school system. As an adult, she proudly earned her GED and earned college credits to advance in her job as a teacher’s assistant at Chatterton Elementary School. She retired from Chatterton, a career she truly enjoyed. Midge gained two more family members with the marriages of her children, Michael to Eileen (Murphy) and Dawn to Bill Mathisen Midge became a grandmother for the first time in 1987 to her only granddaughter, Ashley. In 1989 along came Christopher, in 1992 Matthew and then Andrew “Bubba”, as she would call him, in 1996. Her grandchildren meant the world to her. She was proud of each and every one of them. In 2018 and 2021 Midge became fondly known as “Gigi” great-grandmother to Amelia and Julia. Her times spent with the girls was priceless. A member of Cure of Ars Church, Midge was dedicated to her faith. Saturday mass was a must. When it became more challenging to attend in person, she attended daily mass on her “portal” and would then pray the rosary all in the comfort of her home. Midge loved crime novels, crime shows, a good mystery, old westerns, classic movies, and vanilla ice cream. Antique stores browsing to find just the right accessory for her home. A visit to a casino or coAee shop always brought a smile. She would always bless her “babies, grand babies, and great grand babies at her meal prayer keeping the safe, happy, and healthy. She would tell them all “you only fail, when you fail to try” She encouraged all to do their best. Midge is survived by family and friends who loved her so very much. Her son Michael and his wife Eileen. Daughter Dawn and her husband Bill Mathisen. Grandchildren Ashley and husband Ryan Wichman, Christopher Mathisen, Matthew Hinrichs, Andrew Hinrichs, and great granddaughters Amelia and Julia Wichman. Cousins, especially “Bunny” whose phone calls meant so much to her. Nieces, great nieces and great nephews. Nieces Lori and Amber who loved her so very much. The Murphy family who welcomed Midge with open arms, loved her, and was a big part of her life for over 45 years. John Caputo who became a member to the family as a young boy. Many friends and family friends who meant so much. Jesus has called home a strong, loving and remarkable woman who has left an amazing legacy.