Kathleen J. Burkhalter

Kathleen J. Burkhalter, age 59, of New Bedford passed away surrounded by her loving family on April 28, 2016 at St. Luke’s Hospital. She was the beloved wife of David Bell with whom she shared 31 years of marriage.

Born in Augusta, Georgia and raised in Baguio, The Philippines, Kathleen lived in New Bedford for the past 19 years and previously lived in San Diego, CA. She was the daughter of the late Patricia J. and John Felton Burkhalter.

Kathleen received her undergraduate and graduate degrees from Harvard University. She earned a Master’s Degree in Journalism. She worked as a writer and was the publisher of the Cheerful Cherub and Firefly Press. Her most cherished vocation was being a mother, she devoted her life to her children.

Survivors in addition to her husband, are her six children, Maria “Mercy” J. Bell and her life partner Sara of Nashville, TN, John Michael Bell of New Bedford, Ana Maria “Jakey” J. Bell and her husband Matthew of Belmont, MA, Seraphina E. Bell, Francisco F. Bell and Rosenda M. Bell all of New Bedford, three brothers Michael Burkhalter of San Diego, CA, John Burkhalter of San Francisco, CA, Patrick Burkhalter of San Diego, CA, three sisters, Maria Ronquillo and her husband Omy of Fremont, CA, Miriam Burkhalter and her husband Gabriel Catbagan of San Diego, CA and Mercedes Burkhalter of Fremont, CA and many nieces, nephews and one great nephew. She was the sister of the late Elizabeth Ruyle.

Her Funeral Mass will be held Wednesday, May 4, 2016 at 10am at St. Mary’s Church, Dartmouth Street, Dartmouth. Visiting hours Tuesday from 5-8PM in the Home of Memorial Tribute at Dartmouth. Burial will be private. Memorial contributions in her memory may be made to the Kathleen Joaquin Burkhalter Memorial Fund at http://www.youcaring.comdavidbell-562453#.VyKKe6B9OAo. For tributes and directions please visit our website at www.waringsullivan.

com.