Margaret Catherine Burgess

Margaret Catherine Burgess (loving wife of George D. Burgess) age 78, of Mentor, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 5, 2025, at Ohman Family Living at Holly in Newbury. Born in Syracuse, New York, Margaret was the beloved daughter of the late John and Josephine Hansen and sister to Ann Sadone (Andy) Alisaug. A woman of grace and charm, Margaret had a lifelong appreciation for fashion and beauty, which she pursued academically at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, earning a bachelor’s degree in Fashion Merchandising. It was there she met the love of her life, George D. Burgess. Margaret and George were married in 1974 and shared more than 50 years of steadfast love and companionship - moving wherever life, and George’s work, took them. From Pennsylvania to New York, Michigan, and finally Ohio, which they joyfully called home for over three decades. Professionally, Margaret found fulfillment through her work with Lake Metroparks at Penitentiary Glen, first as a volunteer and then as the manager of the gift shop. Her love for animals was deep and constant - many of her most joyful days were spent helping animals in need and sharing lasting friendships with those who served alongside her. Margaret shared a special bond with her best friend, the late Kathleen Reniff. The friendships that she made through the work that she enjoyed, lasted a lifetime. Margaret and Kathleen will watch over Ruth, Carolyn, Denise, Melissa and Mary Beth. Margaret and George had many ‘fur-babies’ throughout the 50 plus years they shared together. Margaret often referred to her beloved cats, Zoe and Zaza, as her “children,” a testament to the warmth and care she extended to every creature that entered her heart and home. She had a quick wit and a humor that could be charmingly edgy - always ready with a remark that would surprise and delight. Friends often noted that her laughter was as memorable as her style. Margaret also nurtured a deep love for plants, surrounding herself with greenery and growing things that brought beauty and calm into her home and life. A woman of strong faith, Margaret was a longtime member of St. Gabriel Church in Mentor, where she found both spiritual nourishment and community. She is survived by her devoted husband George; her sister Ann; her cherished feline companions, and many nieces and nephews who adored her. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, May 19, 2025, at St. Gabriel Church, 9925 Johnnycake Ridge Rd., Concord, OH 44060. The family will receive friends at the church one-hour prior, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. A private family inurnment will follow at All Souls Cemetery in Chardon, Ohio. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Margaret’s memory to the St. Gabriel Food Bank, 9925 Johnnycake Ridge Rd., Concord, OH 44077 or your favorite animal rescue center. Margaret’s warmth, elegance, and quiet strength touched many. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, humor, and deep love - for her family, her friends, her animals, and the beautiful world she moved through with style and grace. May she rest now in peace and comfort. Arrangements entrusted to the Brunner Sanden Deitrick Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 8466 Mentor Ave., Mentor, Ohio 44060. Offer condolences at www.brunners.com

Margaret Catherine Burgess

April 4, 1947 - May 5, 2025