Phyllis Arlene McKnight Burbrink
Phyllis Arlene McKnight Burbrink, 94, died peacefully on February 15, 2018, in the home where she had lived for 59 years. Born June 3, 1923, to Alvin McKnight and Myrtle Shepperd McKnight, Phyllis grew up in Port Angeles, WA. Her fondest memories of childhood always included her love of the outdoors, especially backpacking with her beloved father. She also loved playing tennis, frequently beating the boys who would challenge her. After high school, Phyllis studied at business college.
Phyllis met Robert (Bob) F. Burbrink (1914-2009), while he was stationed in the Coast Guard. In 1946, she married Bob in Port Angeles. In 1949, their son, Mark, was born in Washington. Their daughter, Wendy, was born in 1950 in Southgate, CA. In 1951, they moved to Santa Barbara. Phyllis stayed home to raise her children, until her daughter began first grade. She returned to accounting, working first with a Milpas St. firm, and then, until retirement, for Art Duncan, CPA, in the 7th floor of the Granada building.
Phyllis and Bob loved fishing and would go every chance they got. When Phyllis retired, they began taking their annual fall drive to Cabo San Lucas in their 25-ft. RV with their 19-ft. boat in tow. For 20 years, they met friends in Cabo, staying for at least a month, enjoying many glorious adventures. Bob passed in 2009, after 63 happy years together.
Phyllis was beloved by all who knew her, including her neighbors and friends; she was an honored guest in her neighbor’s holidays and family celebrations. She was treasured for her warmth, wonderful sense of fun and delicious strawberry pies. She was an active, devoted member of Emanuel Lutheran Church for 67 years, where she also had many dear friends. There, she played in the hand bell choir, worked as the church secretary and washed about a zillion communion glasses.
Phyllis is survived by her sister Audrey Ohmert of Port Angeles, WA, son Mark Burbrink of WA, daughter Wendy Benedetti of Grants Pass, OR, grandchildren Jeff, Heather, Angie, Jessica. Phyllis is also survived by 12 great grandchildren, 4 nieces and 2 nephews.
A memorial for Phyllis will be held at Emanuel Lutheran Church, 3721 Modoc Rd, on Saturday. March 3, at 3:30pm. Her family asks that any donations be given, in her name, to Emmanuel Lutheran Church.