Jean Burke

Jean Ann Burke, 90, of Sterling, died, Sunday, September 6, 2015 at Serenity Hospice and Home. She was an elementary school teacher at Rock Falls grade schools prior to retiring in 1990. Jean was born March 22, 1925 in Clinton, IA, the daughter of Edward R. and Jeanette (Wilke) Burke. She was a graduate of Rock Falls High School and received her Bachelors of Science at Northern Illinois, where she belonged to the alumni association and then received her Master’s Degree from the University of Minnesota where she also belonged to the alumni association. She was a member of Whiteside County Retired Teachers, N.E.A and I.E.A., member of 4-H and Whiteside County Rural Youth, she enjoyed reading, sewing and researching genealogy. Jean was a member of Messiah Evangelical Lutheran Church, Sterling for over fifty years where she taught Sunday school, was a ladies aide and attended bible study. Survivors include two sister-in-laws, Carol Burke of Rock Falls and Audrey Burke of Elizabeth, one brother, John Burke of Colorado and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by one sister Phyllis Larson and two brothers, Albert and Edward Burke. Funeral services will be held at 10 AM Saturday, September 12, 2015 at Messiah Evangelical Lutheran Church, Sterling. Burial will be at Oak Knoll Memorial Park. Visitation will be from 9-10 AM Saturday, prior to services at the church. A memorial has been established to Messiah Evangelical Lutheran Church and Christ Lutheran School. Condolences may be sent to schillingfuneralhome.com.