La Grange Highlands, Illinois
Catherine "Kay" Berger, 86, of LaGrange Highlands passed away peacefully surrounded by her family. She was born in Chicago, Illinois 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, IL 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. 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. Loving wife, mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend. She is survived by her devoted husband, Tom; thirteen 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; proud grandmother of 47, great-grandmother of 11 and fond aunt to many nieces and nephews. Survived also by her adoring baby sister and best friend, Margie King who thought of "Kite" as her guiding light and inspiration; sisters and brother-in-laws, Jim and Ellen Berger, Beth Berger, Queenie Berger, and Butch Iglinski. Preceded in death by her granddaughter, Carey Berger, and sisters and brother-in-laws, Jack King, Frank Berger, Joe Berger, Jack Berger, and Mary Kay Iglinski. Kay lived by two mottos: "Pray Hard, Work Hard, Play Hard" in that order, and "Love can make it easy, Perfect love can make it a joy." Family and friends will be received at the Conboy-Westchester Funeral Home, 10501 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester on Sunday, February 26, 2023 from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Funeral Monday 10:15 a.m. from the funeral home proceeding to St. John of the Cross Church for Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. Interment private. In lieu of flowers, memorials to CMTA (Charcot Marie Tooth Association – www.cmtausa.org) appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to the Original Kuratko Family – Brian D. Kuratko, Funeral Director. For info 708-F-U-N-E-R-A-L.
We were truly sorry to hear of Kay's passing. I am grateful for our last visit before Christmas and being able to share some laughter with you both.
Ann and Mike Francis (neighbors next door)
March 02, 2023 | Other
Kay was truly an angel that walked among us. She and Tom were the meaning of what love, caring, and kindness is all about. I know she is still watching over all of us as she was so good at simply caring. Godspeed to the Berger family and thank you for allowing me to get to know your amazing mother, wife, grandmother, and dear friend. Love you all
Amy M. Seratt
February 26, 2023 | Friend
A truly sweet human being.
Paul Brennan
February 26, 2023 | Vista, CA
Rest in peace Kay, Jim and I always enjoyed your company, you will be missed. Jim and Katy Carney
Jim Carney
February 26, 2023 | Family
To Tom & the entire Berger Family: Our condolences to you all. As former neighbors from Lawton Rd, how fortunate we were to know Kay. Your kindness to my folks was immeasurable & will always be remembered. May all Kay’s wonderful memories sustain & lift you during this difficult time.
Bob & Mary Earl
February 26, 2023 | Friend
Tom and family, we are so sorry to hear about the loss of Katie. She was a warm and wonderful person, & she will be missed We are sorry but we are traveling home from Florida & will be unable to attend the funeral. You are all in our prayers.
Jim & Maureen Farnan
February 26, 2023 | Family
Classic Ivory A Florist Original
Love John and Barb Sherlock
February 25, 2023
A truly lovely lady I am glad to have met, who also raised an amazing family. My deepest condolences.
Tammy Miller
February 25, 2023
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
From the Staff of Conboy's Westchester Funeral Home
February 26, 2023 | Westchester, IL
