Kristin A. Beard

Kristin A. Beard, 78, passed away peacefully on November 18, 2025, at home in Milan, Michigan, surrounded by her loving family. A former resident of Sylvania, Ohio, Kris was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Gilbert and Norma Burgerhoff. She spent her childhood in Wichita, Kansas, where she formed lifelong friendships and treasured memories.

A proud graduate of Wichita State University, Kris met the love of her life in Wichita, Henry Beard, and they were married on December 19, 1969.  A teacher by profession, Kris had a natural gift for working with young people. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, she served as youth minister at St. Joseph Parish in Sylvania, where she became a beloved mentor to many. of the “St. Joe’s Groupies,” and was a constant source of love, guidance, and support.

In 1991, Kris was diagnosed with breast cancer. After experiencing firsthand the lack of resources available for women facing similar battles, she was inspired to make a difference. In August 1993, she founded That Special Woman, a boutique dedicated to helping women undergoing mastectomy and chemotherapy — the first of its kind in the Toledo area. This mission became her life’s work, and her impact continues even after her retirement in 2018.

Above all else, Kris loved being a mother and grandmother. She is survived by her devoted husband of nearly 56 years, Henry, and their children: Erik (Stacie) Beard of Avon, Connecticut; Douglas Beard of Milan, Michigan; Allison Fournier (Tom Rose) of Superior Township, Michigan; and John (Donna) Petras of Queen Creek, Arizona.  Kris was a proud and doting grandmother to Ella Fournier, Gabrianna Beard, Tucker Beard, Victoria Fournier, Kaelyn (Samantha) Petras, and Meg Petras, and great-grandmother to Mateo Petras. She is also survived by her brother, Kirby (Trish) Burgerhoff; many beloved nieces and nephews; and her dear family friend and adopted Mom, Wanda Maltby of Wichita, Kansas.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her stepfather Earl Hammock, her cherished grandmother “Granny B,” and a host of dear friends.

Kris will be remembered for her generous spirit, unwavering strength, and the love she gave so freely to all who knew her.

Visitation will be Monday December 15, 2025, at 11:00AM followed by a Memorial service at 1:00PM at Reeb Funeral Home, 5712 Main Street, Sylvania, Ohio 43560.

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