Bertha Ellen Stevenson, who found herself at the helm of Van Briggle Pottery after her husband’s death in 1990, passed away on September 25, 2010 in Denver, Colorado. She was a true visionary with an artistic ability few have ever possessed. Passionate about the beauty that is synonymous with Van Briggle Pottery as well as classical music and a love for animals, Mrs. Stevenson will be remembered for her generosity, her kindness and her open heart. She and her husband’s mission was to continue Artus Van Briggle’s dream; they succeeded ten-fold. When Mrs. Stevenson’s husband, Kenneth, took the reins at Van Briggle, they were only beginning to embark on those new trends and more contemporary designs, including glossy glazes that are indicative of the 1950s and 1960s. The company thrived under the couple’s direction. The Stevenson’s son, Craig, remains with the pottery as its chief designer.
Mrs. Stevenson is survived by her three children, a sister and eight grandchildren. If you wish to honor her, the family has requested donations be made to the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region, where she volunteered regularly. She was laid to rest October 2nd, 2010 and will be missed by all who knew and loved her. Our condolences and prayers go to the Stevenson family.
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