Edna Burke Obituary

Burke, Edna Mildred (nee Mirback) Passed away on December 21, 2015. She was born on July 6, 1922 in Argo, IL to George and Anna Mirback. She was preceded in death by her devoted parents; loving sister, Lydia Radzik; dear brothers, George and John and her beloved husband of over 50 years, Bob Burke. She is survived by daughter, Edna Marie Burke; son-in-law, Charles Simanek; niece, Lorelei Radulski. Edna was proud of her working career. First as a telephone operator for Illinois Bell starting in the early 1940's. Then, as a receptionist at IBM where she met husband-to-be, Bob Burke. They started a small office equipment business where she kept the operations running smoothly. After Bob sold the business in the early 1970's she went to work for Saks Fifth Avenue as a telephone operator. In the mid 1970's she worked as a receptionist at J. Walter Thompson from where she retired. Bob and Edna moved to Las Vegas in 1987. After Bob's death on December 30, 1999, Edna returned to the Chicago area in June 2000. She lived independently for several years until a fall in 2010 left her wheelchair bound. Edna moved to Chateau Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Willowbrook, IL in February 2011, where she received professional, kind and loving care. She especially enjoyed bingo, art classes and manicures. In September 2015, her health declined and she began receiving care from St. Thomas Hospice. Her family wants to thank the staff at Chateau Nursing and the members of St. Thomas Hospice for the care and kindness shown to Edna. Her last years and final moments were made better by the dedicated and caring staff of these organizations. Memorials can be sent to St. Thomas Hospice, 119 E Ogden Ave., Suite 111, Hinsdale, IL 60521. Services were private.