Maria Elena Burgen, 80, was reunited with the love of her life on September 24, 2023. Her husband, Richard, died in 2007. She was surrounded by her two daughters in her final days after struggling with Alzheimer’s for several years.
Maria was born in Kansas City, Missouri to Martin and Lottie Harris. Maria lost her father at a very young age, leaving Lottie to raise her alone. Maria was her pride and joy, and best friend. She preceded Maria in death in 2010.
Maria graduated from North Kansas City High School in 1963. She became a Secretary, working for Commerce Bank and Folgers, before joining Farmland Industries as an Executive Secretary where she spent 33 years with many co-workers she had remained in touch with following her departure in 2005. She spent her final working years with the Children’s Center for Visually Impaired, another cherished position she held until 2018.
Maria dedicated over 65 years to Masonic organizations. She was a member of North Kansas City Assembly #55 Order of the Rainbow for Girls and served in key roles as an Advisory Board Member and a Master of the Grand Cross of Color. She was also an active member of Chapter #507 Order of the Eastern Star. In addition, she was a member of Hillside Christian Church for over 40 years.
Maria will be lovingly remembered by her two daughters, Cindy (Greg) Barth and Brenda (David) Munden; grandsons Lucas (Blair) Barth, Joshua Munden, Kyle Munden and granddaughter, Natalie Barth; sister-in-laws Carlene Becker and Darla Burgen; brother-in-law Dennis (Barb) Burgen; nieces and nephews and long-time friends.
A visitation for Maria will be held Friday, September 29, 2023 from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM at Mt. Moriah, Newcomer and Freeman Funeral Home, 10507 Holmes Road, Kansas City, MO 64131. A celebration of life will occur Friday, September 29, 2023 from 10:30 AM to 11:00 AM, 10507 Holmes Road, Kansas City, MO 64131. A graveside service will occur Friday, September 29, 2023 from 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM, 10507 Holmes Road, Kansas City, MO 64131.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Children’s Center for Visually Impaired or the Alzheimer’s Association.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mtmoriah.net for the Burgen family.
