Kelsey Lou Orth, 20, of Burlington, died Friday, July 18, 2025.
Born July 8, 2005, in West Burlington, she was the daughter of Daren and Amie McDaniels Orth.
She was a 2024 graduate of Burlington Notre Dame High School and was enrolled to study nursing at Southeastern Community College. She had recently received her CNA Certificate. Kelsey had been working for Panera since she was 16 years old. She never liked getting up that early to go to work but she always enjoyed being there, she had built up quite a following of morning regulars who dined there and always greeted them with a smile.
Kelsey was a vibrant and fearless young woman who brought light and joy to those around her. She was of Catholic faith and was a member of Divine Mercy Parish. She had a bold, spirited personality that showed in everything she did, whether taking selfies, or dancing and singing to her favorite songs - she fully embraced the moment. She loved expressing herself through tattoos and piercings and enjoyed tanning. Her beloved dog, Jack held a special place in her heart. She had a natural softness for animals of all kinds, showing them the same kindness and compassion she extended to everyone she met. Friends and family knew her as someone who was always kind and caring. She enjoyed the quiet focus of puzzles and fidget toys and found beauty in the simple things-especially butterflies and flowers. Her fearlessness, creativity, and gentle soul will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
Survivors include her loving parents, Daren and Amie Orth of Burlington; siblings: Lexie (Tanner) Reisen, Madison (Marcus Johnson) Orth, Jaylen Orth, Christian (Erin Fry) Orth, Kallee (Bryce Britton) Orth, and Kellissa (Jayden Kirby) Orth; maternal grandfather, Ed McDaniels of Farmington, MO; nieces and nephews: Lillian, Benjamin, Ellie, Adam, Malakai, Carson and Kane (due in September); and many extended family members and friends.
She was preceded in death by her great-grandparents; maternal grandparents, Russ and Julia Thornton; paternal grandparents, Ed and Ruth Orth; and brother, Tyler David.
Visitation will be from 12:00 PM until 7:00 PM with the family to receive friends following a 4:00 PM Rosary Service until 7:00 PM Thursday, July 24, 2025 at Prugh Funeral Service, 3940 Division Street.
The Memorial Mass of the Resurrection for Ms. Orth will be 10:00 AM Friday, July 25, 2025, at Divine Mercy Parish-St. John the Baptist Catholic Church with Fr. Jake Greiner as the Celebrant. Inurnment will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery. A time of food and fellowship will be held in the cafeteria at St. John's church following the burial.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.
Prugh Funeral Service is in care of the arrangements.
A photo tribute can be viewed and condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Kelsey's obituary at www.prughfuneral.com.