Lillian Burgess, born September 25 1929 peacefully passed away Monday August 22, 2011. Lillian was raised in Wilkes-Barre Pennsylvania; the seventh child of Stanley and Francis Katusz. She had five brothers and one sister.

Lillian left home after high school to complete her nursing degree at Mercy Hospital. After graduating as a Registered Nurse Lillian worked at the Veteran's Hospital located at Fort Howard, outside Baltimore. It was there that she met her future husband Donn Burgess. During Donn and Lillian's 57 years of marriage they had a daughter, Donna, and two sons, Jim and Jeff. Lillian prioritized home and family first and foremost. She worked for many years as a night-shift nurse so she could be home during the days. She cherished her family including daughters-in-law Cindy and Melissa and her four grandchildren: Gavin, Lauren, Spencer, and Samantha.

Lillian and family moved to Richland in 1975 where she took a position with Kadlec Hospital. She worked in various departments for more than 20 years. Lillian finished her nursing career as a very familiar face at Dr. Corrado's allergy clinic. After retirement, rather than slowing down and taking life from a deck chair; Lil, grew her antique business, "Mom's Closet." She and Donn traveled around the Northwest to antique shows and auctions as had been a hobby for decades. But, no matter where her travels took her and regardless of the many reasons antique shows, soccer tournaments, or even family vacations a church would always be found for mass on Sunday. For Lillian the church and her faith were the cornerstone to her character and she served as a shining example to all around her of how to live a life of prayer. She and Donn supported all of their children's activities and interests and were active members of the Christ the King SEARCH group and youth group in the 1980's. Their home was always open to friends and families in the church and neighborhood.

Lillian's mass will be held at Christ the King Parish in Richland at 11:00 AM on Thursday September 1st. In lieu of flowers, donations in Lillian's name would be welcomed by the Christ the King youth group and library. Please contact the parish office 509-946-1675 for donation arrangements.