Catherine G. Gill

Catherine G. “Kay” Gill, of Buchanan, Michigan, passed away peacefully Friday evening, March 27, 2015, in Wyoming, Michigan.  She was born on July 5, 1919, in Trempealeau, Wisconsin, to John H. Miller and Mary E. (Welch) Miller.  Her family later moved to Three Oaks, Michigan, where she grew up and graduated from high school.  Kay lived in Grand Rapids during World War II and made lifelong friends during her time there.  She married Kenneth E. Gill on September 27, 1946 and they initially made Berrien Springs, Michigan, their home.  In 1949, Kay and Kenny moved to Buchanan and purchased Booster’s Tavern, which they operated successfully and happily for thirty years.  A fixture in downtown Buchanan, Booster’s was known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, its unique “Booster Burger” and the homemade soups that Kay proudly produced daily. Kay and Kenny were members of St. Anthony Catholic Church where Kay served on the Altar Society for many years.  She also participated in a variety of church activities. Kay thoroughly enjoyed visiting with family, friends and neighbors around her kitchen table. Her door was always open for guests.  Kay had friends of all ages and was loved by many in her neighborhood and community. Kay was preceded in death by her husband of 58 years, Kenneth Gill, her grandson, Patrick Ryan Gill, her sister Margaret Shearer, and her brother John Miller.  She is survived by her son, Patrick (Kimberly) Gill, of Byron Center, Michigan, her grandson, Christopher Gill, of Chicago, Illinois, and her brothers; Charles Miller of Lakewood, Washington, James Miller of Stevensville, Michigan and Edward Miller of Dowagiac, Michigan. Visitation for Kay will be held at Swem Chapel-Starks Family Funeral Home, 301 West Front Street, Buchanan, Michigan, on Wednesday, April 1, from 5:00-8:00 p.m. with the Holy Rosary said at 7:00 p.m.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 2, at St. Anthony Catholic Church, 509 West Fourth Street, Buchanan, with Father Richard Altine, celebrant. Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery in Buchanan. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Anthony Catholic Church or Hospice of Michigan. To sign her guest book or leave a condolence message please visit our web site www.swemchapel.com.