The Bertl Family Scholarship Fund is a one-year award dedicated to supporting students pursuing an education in industrial technologies. This scholarship not only aims to provide financial assistance but also to honor the rich history and enduring legacy of the Bertl family, who played a significant role in shaping the community of Roscommon, Michigan.
Marie and Herman Bertl, Sr. immigrated to America from Bohemia in 1906, bringing with them dreams of a better life and a commitment to hard work. By 1912, they had relocated to Roscommon, Michigan, where Herman built the iconic brick house at 1009 Brook Street in 1924—a house that still stands as a testament to their legacy.
Herman was a skilled blacksmith, machinist, and businessman. In May 1920, he opened Bertl’s Garage, which quickly became a cornerstone of the community. By 1927, the garage expanded to include the sale of Chevrolet cars and Indian Gasoline and Oil, marking the beginning of the Bertl family’s long-standing relationship with the automotive industry.
Herman’s dedication to his community extended beyond his business ventures. He was elected President of the Village of Roscommon, serving from 1932-1936 and 1937-1938. During this time, he also began selling Dodge & Plymouth cars through Roscommon Motor Sales and operated Bertl Hardware store on the corner of Fifth and Brooks. His six sons—Frank, Herman Jr., Fritz, Rudolph, Ernest, and Raymond—played crucial roles in supporting and expanding the family’s automotive businesses.
In 1936, Fritz Bertl purchased Roscommon Motor Sales from his father and, in 1950, opened a new brick garage and showroom for Chevrolet cars on M-76. Fritz continued the family tradition of innovation and service until 1969, when he sold the Chevrolet-Olds Agency to Ken Thompson and Ed Puttcomer. Meanwhile, Frank Bertl took over Bertl Garage, which became a Ford Agency in 1956, proudly selling one of the first Ford Mustang cars in 1964. Frank continued to serve the community until he sold the dealership to Terry Misner in 1976.
The Bertl family’s contributions to the Village of Roscommon were not limited to their business successes. They were active and dedicated members of the community, helping to drive the growth and evolution of the local automotive industry. Their legacy of hard work, innovation, and community service is precisely what the Bertl Family Scholarship Fund seeks to honor.
By supporting students in industrial technologies, this scholarship ensures that the spirit of the Bertl family’s dedication and craftsmanship continues to inspire future generations. We invite you to learn more about the Bertl Family Scholarship Fund and how you can contribute to fostering the next wave of skilled professionals who will carry forward this remarkable legacy.
Bertl Family Scholarship Award Winners
2025 – Jack Patchin
To apply for this Scholarship please visit our Scholarship Application.