Katherine Cook

Our beloved Kitty peacefully passed away in her home on February 28 in Manchester after a 7-year-long battle with Parkinson’s disease.  Born Katherine Ellen Ballard to Fred & Merab Ballard. Known as Kitty or Kit, she spent her entire life in Manchester.  She loved life, her family, and had countless friends. She was an active member of the Children’s Hospital Guild, devoted years to the Board of Directors of Helpline, and was past president of the Commodears of the Port Orchard Yacht Club.  She and her husband Dick hosted the Manchester Sailing Regatta for over ten years. Kitty served as Manchester’s much loved postmaster for 16 years. She had a smile & kind word for each and every one of her customers. She is survived by husband Richard; sons Eric (Tracy) and Mark; grandchildren Janelle, Max & Jonah; stepdaughters Jennifer & Barbara; stepsons Jason & Roy; and brother Robert.  Her parents preceded her in death as did her brother Bill, sister Mary Galpin, niece Kitty Sue York, and first husband Ellery.   Memorial at 2:00 pm on Saturday, March 3, 2012 at Rill’s Life Tribute Center in Port Orchard.   Reception to follow at Port Orchard Yacht Club.