Bert Pedersen

Bert Arnold Pedersen, 83, of Shelton, Washington, passed away peacefully on October 20, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.

Born May 22, 1942, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to Richard and Gladys Pedersen, Bert grew up on Bainbridge Island as the middle of five children. After graduating from Bainbridge High School in 1960, he earned a B.A. in History from Western Washington College in 1964, where he met his wife, Donna Hintz. They were married in 1965 and shared 60 wonderful years together.

From 1966 to 1969, Bert served as a Captain in the U.S. Army Medical Administrative Corps, stationed in Alaska and Vietnam. He later enjoyed a long career in food service management, working with Saga Corporation, the University of Hawaii, and the Marriott Corporation before finishing his career as Head of the Culinary Arts Program at Timberlake Job Corps in Estacada, Oregon.

After retirement, Bert volunteered with Habitat for Humanity and Community Lifeline in Shelton. A gifted cook, devoted family man, and loyal sports fan, he loved cheering for the Seattle Mariners, Seahawks, Hawaii Rainbow Warriors, and WSU Cougars.

Bert is survived by his wife, Donna; daughter Kirsten (Eric) Barkman; son Brent (Beth) Pedersen; daughter-in-law Bernadett Pinter; five grandchildren; sister Jerri Bolinger; brother Oliver (Janice) Pedersen; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, and son, Kurt.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, November 8, at 2:00 p.m. at Faith Lutheran Church in Shelton. Aloha or team attire is welcome. Donations may be made to Habitat for Humanity.