Kathleen Bess, age 83, of Elkhart, passed away at her residence on Monday, November 1, 2010. Kathleen was born November 25, 1926 to William and Minnie (Barnett) Kirby in Ward, WV. In 1945, she married Verlin Bess in Switzer, WV. Verlin preceded her in death, passing away in 2005.

Surviving are her daughters; Donna Thomas of Elkhart, IN, Judy Green of Morgantown, IN, Patricia Kline of Elkhart, IN, Betty (Lou) Adams of Indianapolis, IN, Novella (Tommy) Ritchie of Elkhart, IN and Brenda Baker of Elkhart, IN. Kathleen is also survived by her brother John (Sherry) Kirby of NC, 17 grandchildren, 32 great grandchildren, and 6 great great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by 5 brothers and 2 sisters, as well as a host of friends
.

Visitation will be held from 4-8 pm Thursday, November 4, 2010 at Chapel Hill Funeral Home in Osceola. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm Friday, November 5, 2010 at Chapel Hill Funeral Home with interment to follow in Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens
.

Kathleen was employed for many years as a waitress, and held many other jobs as well. She enjoyed shopping, going to the casino and playing BINGO, bowling, and attending church. She was also a member of the Eagles Lodge in Elkhart.

In her memory, donations may be made to Riley''s Children''s Hospital in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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