Kate Burling

Catherine L. Burling, better known as Kate, 86, of Bucyrus died Friday, January 26, 2018 under the care of Homecare Matters Hospice at her niece’s home.



She was born May 7, 1931 in Wyandot County to the late Oscar E. Cross and Julia Mae (Robertson) Cross Barber. Mr. Cross got a job building bridges with the WPA and the family moved to Bucyrus when Kate was six. She went to Bucyrus Schools and married Donald Wayne Burling on May 13, 1948. They were blessed with their only child, Larry Wayne Burling in June 1949.



Despite going through her share of tragedy, including the death of Larry in 1966, Kate will be remembered for her tremendous kindness and cheerful presence. She worked as an LPN at Bucyrus Community Hospital and retired after 36 years of loving care for the sick. Since retirement, she regularly got together with fellow BCH retirees to reminisce over coffee. She adored her family and looked forward to every visit and update. Kate also enjoyed lake weekends at the cottage, casino trips, tending to her flowers, and she was an excellent cook, especially her bean soup and cheesy potatoes. She worshiped at the former First Christian Church, was a member of VFW Post 1078 Auxiliary, and encouraged the work of Relay for Life.



Kate is survived by her brother, Willard Cross of Bucyrus; many nieces and nephews including her caregiver, Fonda Moore, Keith Moore, Kathy Studer, and special great-great nephew, Owen Bradley. She was also blessed by her in-home caregivers, Mary, Donna, Nancy, and Jayme and her longtime best friend, Marilyn Thomas.



She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Don in 2006 after 57 years of marriage; son, Larry; siblings, Anna Lee Cross, James Cross, and Howard Cross; nephew, Roger Moore; and her Burling sister and brothers-in-law.



Friends may call on Tuesday, January 30 from 6-8 pm at Wise Funeral Service where her funeral will be held on Wednesday at 11:00 am with Gary Schiefer officiating. Burial will follow in Oakwood Cemetery.



Memorial donations can be made payable to Crawford County Relay for Life or Homecare Matters Hospice and given at the funeral home. Memories and photos can be shared on Kate’s Tribute Wall.