Kathleen Barton

Kathleen Barton, 70, passed away December 1, 2022 in San Diego, California, encompassed by her loving family.

Kathleen married the love of her life Richard Gilbert Barton, Jr in Salt Lake City, Utah on June 10, 1972 and was later sealed in the Salt Lake Temple. A storybook romance of the beautiful high school cheerleader marrying the handsome local football star led to nearly 50 years of wonderful moments with her husband and growing family.

Born August 28, 1952 in Murray, Utah as the youngest child of William Burgess Sr. and Vera White, she was preceded in death by her loving husband Rick (2018), brother William Burgess Jr (Fay), sister Joyce (Ray) and daughter Camille Barton Hugill (2020). She is survived by her brother Dr. Gordon V. White and leaves behind 4 children: Dr. Brandon (Kameron), Tyler (Rochelle), Megan, Josh (Dianna) as well as 11 grandchildren who she enjoyed teaching and spoiling more than anything in her life.

Kathleen graduated from Murray High School in 1970 and briefly attended both Brigham Young University and the University of Utah before starting her role as a full-time homemaker in their new home (built by Rick himself) on Stonemoor Circle in Holladay, Utah.  A “mother extraordinaire” to her five children, she would always go the extra mile to make sure every need was met, every gift obtained, and every event was attended. Her influence and mentorship as a mother figure extended to numerous relatives, friends and friends of her children, who marveled in her ability to treat everyone with generous respect, ample nourishment, and unconditional love. She was beloved by everyone in her large extended family for her unfailing kindness, fashionable style, exemplary cooking, and attention to the good qualities of each person with whom she came into contact.

While she traveled the United States and the world with her family, enjoyed the sites of Europe, danced at night in Spain, and relaxed in the beauties of Mauritius, her life’s greatest joys were spent in countless hours of reading to and nurturing her 11 grandchildren and decorating her home in preparation for the next holiday. Any holiday was reason enough to gather and express her love with a thoughtful gift to all, making sure each person felt seen and loved every time in the way only she could. Each holiday was celebrated to the max, with a revolving collection of seasonal decorations and family traditions.

Despite suffering many losses and health problems in recent years, she endured her journey well with a faithful and happy disposition, always comforting others and sacrificing her own needs ahead of those of her family. She was a devoted friend, confidant, and warm presence that cannot be replicated for the many people she influenced. Her memory and example will eternally be an inspiration and guide.

Funeral services will be held Friday, December 16 at 11:00 AM at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Freestone Park Ward, 230 N Val Vista Drive, Gilbert Arizona, 85234. Friends and family are welcome to attend a viewing the same morning 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM prior to the services.

Interment will be at San Tan Memorial Gardens at Schnepf Farms following the morning service.

Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.