Kathleen Ellen Kelly Burgh was born in San Francisco on April 15, 1940. She went home to the Lord on July 30, 2024, due to complications from a fall. She was 84 years old. To friends and relatives, she was known as “Kathleen,” “Kit,” “Kathy” or “Kitty.” For 69 years she was a Eureka resident and faithful parishioner of St. Bernard’s Catholic Church.

Kit’s parents moved to Seattle, Washington, and then to Eureka when she was 15. She graduated from St. Bernard’s High School and attended Humboldt State College. At 23, she married the love of her life, Richard Burgh, and settled down to create and nurture what was most important to her: a healthy, loving family.

Life-long friend Genie Wood describes her as sparkling. “She’s always had beautiful hands and she used them well making jewelry. We read every cook book in print together.” She liked to sew outfits for her family; try new recipes from her cookbook collection; and indulge in handmade crafts like ceramics and beading. For decades, she gifted her creations to family and friends. Kit spent an entire year hand-stitching a gorgeous quilt as her sister’s wedding gift. Her life was about “being there” for everyone she loved. She was talkative and outgoing, considering everyone a potential new friend. Kathy had a beautiful walk of faith.

She is survived by Richard, her (hard-working), devoted husband of 60 years; her daughter, Julie Burgh, who has provided loving care for both of her parents for decades; her daughter, Kelly, and husband Paul Brochard, and their three children: Thomas; Christian; and Laura; and her sister, Pat Whittemore.

Kit successfully fulfilled her lifelong dream, leaving a family who is profoundly blessed by her life and will always love her deeply.

Funeral arrangements were made with great care and respect by Sanders Funeral Home.

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