Notes by Paul Freise:

Gertrude Freise was born on the family farm, attended country school, took part in the usual farm duties, and completed high school in New Salem. Then she attended Dakota Business College in Fargo, preparing herself as a stenographer and receptionist. She worked as a receptionist at the Quain and Ramstead Clinic in Bismarck and later in a similar position at the Bismarck Hospital. Gertrude was very active, relatively small and quick, and ambitious. She was successful first as a receptionist and then in helping her husband in his business.

Her husband owned part of a shoe store in Bismarck for some time, then worked for a chain store in several plains states. Later he established a dry cleaning business in Grangeville, Idaho. During a severe blizzard in Grangeville, he suffered a heart attack trying to protect his establishment and passed away. Gertrude continued to live in Grangeville near her daughter.