Dr. Terry Burik

1944 - 2023

Dr. Terry Burik, also known as Teresa Stankowski

Dr. Terry Burik, 78, of Millstone, passed away peacefully February 3, 2023 at the Cranbury Center in Monroe, NJ. Born in Auerbach, Germany during World War II, she lived in a displaced persons camp for several years before coming to the US and settling down in Union, NJ. She graduated from St. Peter’s High School, New Brunswick, NJ.  Throughout her life, she was a strong advocate for the rights of public education for children.  This started with her pursuit of a BA in psychology, a master’s degree in special education, and a double doctorate in educational theory and administration from Rutgers University.  She was also the President at 21st Century Learning Services, where she continued to provide evaluation services to determine student learning needs after retiring as a learning consultant from Red Bank Public School District.  She was a devoted member of many Polish organizations, attended St. John’s Church in Allentown, NJ and had a high commitment of family and dedication to her grandchildren.  She shined when reading books to them, taking multiple trips together and playing games.  

Daughter of the late Richard and Olga Stankowski, Teresa is predeceased by her brothers, Richard Stankowski and Robert Stankowski, and her sister, Barbara Boyington. She is survived by her son Brett Burik; her daughter and son-in-law Brooke and Brian Venet, four grandchildren, Kylie Tyler, Dylan, and Layla; her sister, Mary Grzybowski, as well as several nieces, nephews and extended family.

A viewing will be held Wednesday February 8th from 5-8pm at the Peppler Funeral Home, 114 S. Main St., Allentown, NJ. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11am on Thursday, February 9th at St. John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church, 1282 Yardville-Allentown Rd., Allentown, NJ. Interment will follow in Ocean County Memorial Park, Toms River, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Teresa’s name to The Polish Cultural Foundation www.polishculturalfoundation.org