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It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Vilma Kurilla on April 21, 2023.  Born on April 20, 1931, Vilma was blessed to have celebrated her 92^nd birthday surrounded by her loving family at the lake house she loved.

Vilma was the daughter of the late Edward and Anna Franks Bursnick.  Vilma was predeceased by her husband, John Kurilla, with whom she met at an early age in Simpson, PA, the town in which they both grew up.  They celebrated 60 years of marriage before his passing in 2014.  John and Vilma chose Doylestown, PA, to raise their family and run a business.  They both shared many of the same interests and traveled extensively.  Eventually, they retired to Crystal Lake, Clifford Township, PA, at the family’s summer home.

Vilma is survived by her six children and seven grandchildren with whom she instilled the values of family, friends, and community:  Deb Kurilla (New Hope, PA); Ed Kurilla, son, Tom, and Ed’s fiancé, Cindy Chen (NYC); Jack Kurilla, spouse, Karen, and children, Jodi and Jake (Madison, NJ); Joe Kurilla, spouse, Kathy (1960-2021), and sons, Dylan and Austin (Warrington, PA); Donna Molettiere and spouse, Peter (Mexico); Jennifer Mayock, spouse, Matt, and daughters, Anna and Ellie (Berwyn, PA); as well as her cousin, Pattie Franks Evanish, whom she loved and nicknamed “sister.”

After graduating from Fell Township High School in Simpson, Vilma received a degree in decorating from Briarcliff College.  She enjoyed a brief career as an interior decorator in Scranton before her marriage to John.  Vilma was always involved in community, becoming a member of the Elkview Country Club, and actively participating in the Crystal Lake Association.  Her passions included the arts, ballet, symphony, opera, decorating, card games, and golf. She especially liked entertaining guests in her home or backyard at Crystal Lake.  Her door was always open, as she lived by the motto, “The More the Merrier!”  She was known for her warm and loving personality and infectious laugh.  With her blue eyes and welcoming smile, she touched the lives of everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her.  She will be dearly missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

There will be a private memorial service at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to thetreesremember.com, arborday.org or savethechildren.org.

Joseph W Scotchlas Funeral Home, Inc., Simpson is assisting the family. For condolences visit:www.scotchlasfuneralhome.com