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Desnoyer Funeral Home - Jackson

204 N. Blackstone

Jackson, Michigan

Rosemary Burkey Obituary

BURKEY, ROSEMARY "JUDY" T. Has taken her final horseback ride into the Western sunset… Judy passed away on Wednesday, May 22, 2013, in Jackson, Michigan, at 85 years strong, having been born in Jackson on a snowy Christmas Eve. She lived with Lewis and Marguerite Walters and brother, Jim, on Ellery Street. Judy then worked on dude ranches in Colorado and California until meeting her beloved husband, John "J.C." After marrying in 1951, they ran a successful Jackson business. Mr. and Mrs. Burkey raised seven children and lots of critters, including horses, which were her passion. She even taught J.C., the kids, and others to appreciate them. As a fervent tomboy, she played sports with childhood friends, bowled, ice skated, and fished. Judy played golf, swam and learned to water ski, even backwards! Surfing, wind-surfing, snorkeling and scuba diving became passions in later years, making her last dive at the age of 71! She attended school at St. Johns and after college became an accomplished and popular secretary for various Jackson businesses. Judy was an avid reader of cowboy novels, loved to shop at Western tack stores, and had a vast collection of John Wayne memorabilia. Anticipating new adventures, she was always ready to hit the road with family and friends, but was a humanitarian at heart, having volunteered at TLC Eye Care in Jackson. Rooted in her Catholic faith, she had strong morals and scruples. Her German and Irish heritage made her hardy and fun-loving. Judy's vibrant personality made her a unique woman. She is predeceased by her parents; loving husband; brother; nephew Michael; sister-in-law Val; niece Linda, and her treasured Arabian horse, Raynee, who in Judy's opinion was a member of the family. Judy is survived by her daughters, Roxann L. Burkey-Shallies (Ken) of Alabama, Pamela A. Day (James) of Virginia, Laurel M. Burkey (Pene Vandenburgh), Dana T. Burkey, Mara D. Van Gorder, and sons, Christopher J. Burkey (Terry) and Eric T. Burkey of California. She leaves behind three grandchildren, Christina A. Sauceda (Stephen) of Virginia, Cassandra R. Colvin of California and Sara A. Van Gorder, and great-granddaughter, Erin Nicole Sauceda of Virginia. Dear family friend, Jan Osborn and best friend, Pauline "Pug" Bunker also mourn her passing. Her family expresses great appreciation for all the amazing caregivers during her lengthy illness. Both her visitation, which starts at 3:00 p.m., and the Mass of Christian Burial, starting at 4:00 p.m., will be held at St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church, at 120 East Wesley Street in Jackson on Tuesday, May 28th. Judy's ashes will be laid to rest at St. John's Catholic Cemetery in Jackson. In lieu of flowers, Judy's wishes were for Memorial Masses said in her name at St. Mary's or St. John the Evangelist Church. Also, donations can be made to the Alzheimer's and Dementia Association of America or Great Lakes Hospice. To quote her Aunt Martha, "Glory be to God! We shall dearly miss Judy!" Daughter, Tomboy, Cowgirl, Wife, Mom, Sportsqueen and Good Buddy… Happy, Heavenly Trails! www.desnoyerfuneralhome.com www.MLive/obituaries Desnoyer Funeral Home Family owned for 123 years

Published by Jackson Citizen Patriot on May 26, 2013.
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Memories and Condolences
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Sorry to hear about the loss of your mother. It was a pleasure taking care of Judy at Arbor Woods Assisted Living and she will be missed. Now she is riding on the range with John (Wayne) by her side. God Bless Diana Gioia Dietary Manager

June 1, 2013

Pam, I read with much regret, the loss of your mother the other day. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your lovely family.
I truly have fond memories of your most interesting and happy family. Gary G

gary grzesek

May 30, 2013

Lori -
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your mother. I was out of town, otherwise I would have attended her funeral or come to visitation. You have my sympathy and prayers that God picks you up and carries you when you can't seem to take another step. Please know that you will be in my thoughts.

Jan Drake

May 28, 2013

My memories of Ma Burkey are, for me, very unique, personal, and fond. She was so much a part of my JAX experience and, for many years, my life. I loved her and was glad to have visited with her a couple of years ago when she was able to do so. She will always have a very special place in my heart and memories, as will you...Pam, Roxi, Dana, Mara, Eric, Chris and Lori...all. God Bless and know Ma, and all of you, are in my thoughts.

Butch Colvin

May 28, 2013

Roxi, Pammy, Lori, Dana, Mara, Chris and Eric, My heart goes out to all of you at this most difficult time. I spent many hours under the care of your family. Your mother was such a strong and spiritual woman. As I grew older I had more and more respect for her as I gained more maturity myself. I will forever be in gratitude for her welcoming me into her family and leading me too. I learned from each one of you things your mother passed down. I think I never called her "Judy" till I was passed 50 myself before then it was Mrs. Burkey. What a woman! Free, free at last from all the cares of this world...rest in peace. Peace & Love be with you all tomarrow... love Danette

Danette Flamm

May 28, 2013

Dear Chris, Roxi, Pam, Lori, Dana, Mara, And Eric:
I am so sorry for the loss of "Ma Burkey". I have many fond memories growing up and going through my young adult years with your family. You all made me feel like an additional member of your loving family. My wife Shawneene and I are unable to attend the funeral, but send you our love and prayers. I know it's been years, but if you are in need of anything, don't hesitate to contact me through my mother, Nancy. May God continue to bless you all.

Joe Bones

May 27, 2013

Dear,

Dana, Mara and family I am deeply sorry for your loss. May you cherish/hold your mothers memories close to your heart each and every day. Much love and many prayers.

Katrinia Herp

May 27, 2013

To Roxi,Pam,Lori,Dana,Mara,Chris & Eric
Our deepest condolences to you all & your families. I have numerous memories of Judy growing up & then after I got married -here in Cayman. We will surely miss her. Her sense of humor, love, guidance & faith in God was amazing. She was truely an example to live by. Keep strong kids- she is still with you in spirit.!!! Love, Mary

Mary Ebanks

May 27, 2013

I'm sorry for your loss Chris. Your family will be in our prayers.

May 27, 2013

Dana, So sorry for your loss. I will be thinking of you and keeping you and everyone in my prayers. Jackie Watson

May 27, 2013

Judy was a blessing each and every day...those twinkling blue eyes and shy smile spoke so many words about her when her voice was softened. She was a gift every day, and she could brighten a room by being in it.

My thoughts and prayers are with you today and everyday as you find healing and peace.

Giddy-up go...

Karen Duckworth

May 27, 2013

I have heard and read about all of Judy's life. She was a sweet and wonderful Soul and I feel her greatest accomplishment was her children. I have never seen so much devotion from a family. It was a blessing to be a small part of her life for awhile. She has left so many lights in this world...SHINE ON CHILDREN...

Carol Hammond

May 27, 2013

Dear Chris and Terry,

So sorry to hear about your mom. Please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.

George and Bunny Nelson

May 27, 2013

Lori and family, thoughts and prayers for you all during this difficult time. Your mother was a wonderful person to care for and it was a pleasure to be a part of her life! May you all be a peace knowing that she is no longer in pain and riding her horses as she truly loved!

Molly Turner (3rd Shift RA)

May 27, 2013

Sending strength and prayers for the days ahead. It was a pleasure taking care of you wonderful mom, Thank you for letting me be a part of her life and meeting all seven of her children! Miss Judy will be missed!

May 27, 2013

My thoughts and prayers are with the Burkey family at this difficult time. I worked at the eye center where Judy volunteered years ago and I truly loved it when she was there! She was such a delight to be around and she ALWAYS had a funny story to share with us! She had a way of making you laugh Soo hard and she always laughed and had a smile on her face! She loved taking about her family and was always soo proud of all of you! Please take comfort in knowing that she touched many lives and made the world a much better place! Rest in peace Judy!

Jennifer Chandler

May 26, 2013

To all of the wonderful, loving Burkey family with whom I've had the pleasure of sharing so many joyous occasions, I will always cherish the sound of your mom's laughter. Her legacy lives through each and every one of you kids. May you feel the peace of God's love in your hearts.

Steve Brooks

May 26, 2013

Lori and family- Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. May you gain comfort from the Lord and have many great memories to get you through difficult times. Diane & Bill Lowe. Princeton, KY

May 26, 2013

We love and miss you Mom -- Rest in Peace, sweet lady, in the arms of God and the Angels...

Chris & Terry Burkey

May 26, 2013

To the Burkey family:

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless You and may God provide you with comfort now and always.

The Eley's

Doren Eley

May 26, 2013

I love you Mom. So much.

E. Burkey

May 26, 2013

I have wonderful memories of the Burkey family. Judy will be missed by many. Bless you all.

Mary Spitler Kemp

May 26, 2013

What a beautiful tribute to your mother!! I just want you to know what a privilege it was to care for your Mother,she will be truely missed.

Bobbi Prestidge

May 26, 2013

Pam I am so sorry for the loss of your mom. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Lynne Fairbanks

May 26, 2013

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