Norean Berbling

CHARLESTON, Mo. -- Norean "Peggy" Berbling, 71, of Topeka, Kan., died Sunday, May 9, 2004, at a hospital in Topeka.

She was born Sept. 13, 1932, in Charleston, daughter of Merle and Anna Wright. She and Joseph Berbling were married March 25, 1952. He preceded her in death.

Berbling was the first licensed funeral director in the state of Illinois. She was a member of Daughters of Isabella and Assumption Catholic Church.

Survivors include a son, Craig Berbling of Chandler, Ariz.; two brothers, Jack Wright of Chaffee, Mo., Bill Wright of Brentwood, Mo.; a sister, Pat Frayser of Cape Girardeau; and two grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers.

A memorial service will be held at 9 a.m. Wednesday at Assumption Church.

Newcomer Family Funeral Home in Topeka is in charge of arrangements.