Catherine “Kay” Berger, 86, of LaGrange Highlands, died peacefully surrounded by her family on Feb. 23, 2023.
She was born in Chicago on Sept. 20, 1936 to the late James and Catherine (Farnan) Ellis. She grew up in St. Gabriel Parish where she married Tom, her cherished and beloved husband and best friend of 64 years.
They were 44-year residents of Riverside, where Kay was heavily involved at St. Mary Parish and School. Kay taught math for one year but found her true calling as wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother.
She was a proud member of her high school and college “clubs” from Mercy High School and St. Xavier College. Family always came first. In her presence, you were always welcomed and embraced.
Ms. Berger is survived by her devoted husband, Tom; 13 children, Cathy (Don) Josefik, Mary (Kevin) Syring, Tom (Cindy) Berger, Jim (Nancy) Berger, Michael (Terri) Berger, Peggy (Rick) Orabutt, Kevin (Pam) Berger, John (Kris) Berger, Jeanne (David) Witz, Stephen (Meg) Berger, David (Colleen) Berger, Anne (Greg) Deis, Daniel (Theresa) Berger; 47 grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
She is also survived also by her adoring baby sister and best friend, Margie King, who thought of ”Kite” as her guiding light and inspiration; her sisters and brothers-in-law, Jim and Ellen Berger, Beth Berger, Queenie Berger and Butch Iglinski. She was preceded in death by her granddaughter, Carey Berger, and sisters and brothers-in-law, Jack King, Frank Berger, Joe Berger, Jack Berger and Mary Kay Iglinski.
A funeral Mass was held Feb. 27 at St. John of the Cross Church. Interment was private. In lieu of flowers, memorials to CMTA (Charcot Marie Tooth Association, cmtausa.org) appreciated.
Arrangements were handled by the Original Kuratko Family, Brian D. Kuratko, funeral director.
