Sara Lee Newman Bertrand, aged 62, passed away in her home in Gainesville, FL, on January 31, 2020, after a brave 10-year battle with metastatic breast cancer.
Sara was born on April 19, 1957 in Philadelphia, PA, to Harry and Norma Newman where she spent her formative years before attending The Pennsylvania State University where she received her BA in Criminal Justice. Sara started her career and family in Philadelphia before moving to San Diego, CA where she resumed her career as a paralegal for Lincoln, Gustafson, & Cercos, LLP. She expanded her family in southern California before relocating to northern Virginia where she raised her sons and was a proud sports Mom. She met her husband Jacques Bertrand in Suffolk, VA before moving to Gainesville, FL in 2011 and retiring.
Sara possessed the ability to forge lifelong relationships with friends from coast to coast. She loved all things Mickey Mouse, she enjoyed playing golf, bowling and traveling to play and win in mahjong tournaments. She was a creative soul loved to quilt, sew, bake and cook. Sara was an excellent hostess and had a passion for serving her community as an active citizen. In her retirement, she served as a poll worker on election days, she was a cheery substitute Hebrew school teacher and volunteer for Haven advanced illness care. Above all else, Sara was a devoted wife, loving mother and Mom-Mom that prioritized spending time with family.
In addition to her husband of nine years Jacques, she is survived by her sons Brett Steiner (Erin) and Jarred Steiner (Maggie), her step-children Chase Bertrand (Nicole) and Maggie Bertrand, her four grandchildren Lola, Logan, Lily, and Noah, her sister Gail Gorenstein (Charlie) and her beloved dog, Mickey.
Sara will be remembered by her family and many friends as a courageous, energetic, and inspiring woman who did not waste a moment of her life. Her spirit and sass will live on in all those who knew and loved her. The family of Sara Bertrand would like to thank Dr. Stephen Staal of UF Health Medical Oncology for the care and attention he paid Sara over the years.
