Gertrude C. (Trudy) Simpson, 81, of the Presbyterian Home and formerly of West Utica, passed away Monday, September 21, 2009 with her loving children and grandchildren by her side. Trudy was born in Utica on June 9, 1928 a daughter of Frederick J. and Myra (Vollmer) Gerstner. At Calvary Baptist Church, Utica on April 12, 1947 Trudy married Marvin W. Simpson a blessed union of 56 years until his passing away on July 25, 2003. For 32 years until her retirement in 1978 she was employed with the Dunlop Tire Co. in Utica. After her retirement Trudy became involved with making macramé plant hangers and displayed them at many local craft fairs. Trudy was also a poll worker for the Oneida County Board of Elections. In 1983 Trudy suffered a debilitating stroke that left her wheelchair bound. She was a member of the Whitestown American Legion Post #1113 Ladies Aux. and the Textile Workers Union where she once served as secretary and shop steward. Trudy is survived by her daughter and son-in-law; Carol and Richard Bernhardt of Chadwicks, a son and daughter-in-law; New York State Trooper James and Annette Simpson of New Hartford, four grandchildren; David Bernhardt of Liverpool, NY, Pamela Bernhardt of Chadwicks, Kyle Simpson and Ryan Simpson both of New Hartford and many cousins. Trudy was predeceased by a grandson, Stephen Bernhardt on October 2, 2001, a sister, Elizabeth Gerstner and a brother Fred Gerstner. Mrs. Simpson's funeral service will be held on Friday September 25, 2009 at 10:00 from the Heintz Funeral Home, 1517 Whitesboro St., Utica. Burial will take place in Forest Hill Cemetery, Utica. Calling hours at the funeral home are Thursday from 4-8. Those so wishing may make donations to the Presbyterian Home in Trudy's memory. The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the administration of the Presbyterian Home and staff of the Birch Wing, to Polly DeCesare who's been Trudy's friend and advocate thru her nine and a half years at the home and to Tom Lorenz who stayed with the family during her final hours. Your loving care and compassion will never be forgotten.