Caryl A. Burgess

Caryl Arlos Burgess, 77, Beardsley, MN, passed away Tuesday, July 26, 2022, in her home surrounded by her family.

A graveside service will be Wednesday, August 3, 2022, at 11:00 AM at St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery, Beardsley.  A celebration of life will follow the service at Big G's, Beardsley.

Caryl was born October 3, 1944, in Browns Valley, MN, to parents Clarice (Raw) Burgess and Caryl Burgess. Caryl was born at the home of her grandparents, Robert and Mabel Raw. At the time of her birth, Caryl's mother Clarice and brother Glenn were temporarily residing in Browns Valley while her father Caryl was serving in the Navy during World War II. In 1963, Caryl graduated from Waukegan Township High School, Waukegan IL. She then furthered her education and graduated from Rockford Technical College with an Administrative Assistant diploma in 1965.

In 1965, Caryl and Cyril Pontillo (deceased) were married in Racine, WI. To this union a daughter, Lisa (Jason) Bailey of Elk River, MN, was born. Caryl has two granddaughters Antonia and Ciara Bailey.

Caryl started her career path teaching at Parkside Technical Institute in Racine, WI. She then worked at the Downey VA hospital in Waukegan, IL. After moving to Minnesota, she worked at the American Legion Auxiliary headquarters located in St. Paul, MN. She was also employed by the American Red Cross, St. Paul.

In the early 2000's, Caryl moved to Beardsley to be closer to family. She was employed at SuperValu in Sisseton, SD, and the Browns Valley Health Center. Caryl enjoyed spending time with her friends and family. She had a deep love for animals, especially small dogs. She was known to indulge in chocolate covered cherries and enjoyed a nice glass of wine. She was a long-time member of the American Legion Auxiliary.

Caryl leaves behind her brother, Glenn (Kathy) Burgess of Beardsley; nieces Katie Danielson of Glenwood, MN, and Jennifer (Dennis) Sykora of Wheaton, MN; two great nieces, Cacee and Kendall Danielson of Glenwood; two great nephews, Cameron Sykora of Fargo, ND, and Cole Sykora of Wheaton.

Caryl was preceded in death by her father, Caryl and mother, Clarice.