Edith Keller Burch

Edith K Burch, age 96, passed away peacefully on February 11, 2019 in Napa. She was born on May 19, 1922 in Madison County, Indiana. She met a local Napa boy, George K Burch, via a letter from the South Pacific during World War II. They wrote letters (precursor to internet dating) fell in love and were married on April 28th, 1946.

They started Capital Business Service in 1957, a company providing accounting services and tax preparations. When her beloved husband passed away 22 years ago, Edith continued to run the business on her own. She loved her work, employees and clients so much that she did not stop working until she was 94. She was sharp as a tack; at social gatherings she would be found with people crowded around her asking for her advice on business and taxes. She was an honest, hard worker who believed in the Golden Rule (treat others as you wanted to be treated), we will forever hear her saying that.

She belonged to the First Presbyterian Church of Napa for 63 years and served on most of their boards and committees. She was a life member of Soroptimist International (a professional women’s organization that does community service). She held every office they have including President. At age 81 she was recognized by U.S. Congress, receiving the National Experience Works Award for the State of California and was honored the following year by the Governor with the Outstanding Older Worker Award for California.

As for family life, Edith had 6 children including a foster daughter. We were fortunate to have such a loving, caring and strong mother. Her care was not limited to her family…. There was never a holiday without extra people at the dinner table and for Christmas there was always a stocking with a personal gift for those who joined our family.

Her husband George, sister Ellanora, sons George and Roger predeceased Edith. Four children survive her: Raymond Burch, Stewart Burch, Dianna (Burch) Freeman and foster daughter Janis Freeman. Fourteen grandchildren: George Burch, Joey Burch, Josh Burch, Jennifer Burch, Sarah Araujo, Cynthia Keeler, Sam Burch, Daniel Burch, Jessica Senft, Michael Easley, Adam Easley, Jacob Easley, Miklos Laszlo and Ryan Freeman…. and twenty-one (21) great grand children.

Our mother was grace and energy combined. She did everything in life with a twinkle in her blue eyes and always a smile on her beautiful face. She loved her family and we loved her, and she will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts.

A celebration of her life will be held at 11:00 am on March 9th at the First Presbyterian Church, 1333 Third Street Napa.

Donations may be made to Soroptimist International of Napa (Fed Id #94-6104117) for the education and training of women, with financial needs, who are head of household with the goal of making a better life for themselves and their children.

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