Catherine "Kitty" Burich

Catherine LaFontaine Burich, better known as "Kitty", past away at her home on September 24, 2013. She was born on April 3, 1926 to Burrel and Edith Payne, in Brawley California. Kitty came to San Pedro in the early 1940's where she had worked at the Globe Theatre, Shanghai Red, then was an operator for Magic Music, where she met and latter married her boss, co-owner, John Burich. She was active in the YWCA girls club in the 1950's and 1960's. She stayed active in all school activities with her children and was an avid animal lover. Kitty co-found the California American Eskimo dog Association and loved showing and winning trophies with her dogs. After the death of her husband in 1993, she began to volunteer for the San Pedro Elks Lodge and became a member of the Emblem Club. She was one of the first women to join the Elks, was a member of the Roughnecks and in 2005 was the first woman to become Elk of the Month. For the year 2009-2010 Kitty became Elk of the year and wore her purple jacket with pride. She was always willing to lend a helping hand and was always donating to different charities. Kitty touched the lives of many. She is preceded in death by her husband John Burich and sister Doreen Rhoan. She is survived by sons; Lee Wood, Joe Burich (Rhonda), Daughters; Jaebee Donner (Mickey), Kaeleen Mardesich (Anthony), eleven grandchildren, fifteen great grandchildren, one deceased, one great great granddaughter, nephews, nieces and her loving companion, her dog, Wally. She will be forever in our hearts.

Funeral Home:
Green Hills Mortuary and Memorial Chapel
27501 S.Western Ave.
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
US 90275