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Oct. 12, 1928 – January 21, 2021 Lois Bertram Markus, 92, of Smith Mountain Lake, passed away on Jan. 21, 2021 at home.  She was the wife of the late Howard Milton Markus. Born in Elmhurst, Ill. on Oct. 12, 1928, to the late Frank and Helen (Liska) Bertram.

Lois was an artist, primarily painting in oils, and enjoyed playing the piano.  She and Howard married on June 6, 1953 in Cicero, Illinois.  They were members of Trinity Ecumenical Parish, Smith Mountain Lake Retired Military Club, and Smith Mountain Lake Homeowner’s Association.

She is survived by three daughters, Nanette Richardson (Ray), Carla DeLoach (Greg), and Pamela Bridges (David); nine grandchildren, Philip Richardson (Katherine), Meredith Nattke (Christoph), Rebecca Richardson; Morgan, Madelynne, Meleah and Max DeLoach; Cameron (Kristin) Bridges, and Courtney (Bobby) Hayler; great-grandchildren, Ian and Isaac Richardson and Millie and CJ Bridges; and one niece, Nancy Turner. Lois was preceded in death by a sister, Diana Bertram.

The family wishes to express sincere thanks to Carol Hagerman for the wonderful care she gave our mother in her last years. Interment will be in Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. A service and celabration of Lois’s life locally will be held at 1:30 pm on Saturday, January 30, 2021 at Tharp Funeral Chapel in Bedford with Pastor Philip Bouknight officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Trinity Ecumenical Parish or Gentle Shepherd Hospice. Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Bedford is assisting the family.