Alana Burke Obituary
Alana Nicole Burke passed away on September 2, 2025, in San Jose, California, after a sudden and unexpected illness. She was lovingly surrounded by her husband, Nate Burke; her parents, Ellen and Marco Meyer; and her sister, Alyssa Meyer.
Born on October 3, 1985, in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, Alana spent her early years immersed in the beauty of the Midwest. Her childhood memories were filled with lakeside adventures and woodland explorations that shaped her joyful spirit and curious nature.
Alana graduated from Boise High School in 2004, where her musical talents shone through in choir performances and local events. She continued to share her voice with Opera Idaho and other community venues. She earned her undergraduate degree Cum Laude from the University of Arizona in 2008 as a proud member of Pi Beta Phi.
Following graduation, Alana worked alongside her parents at Great American Appetizers as Director of Research and Development, contributing to recipe development with pride and creativity. Inspired by this experience, she pursued and completed a Master of Business Administration cum laude from Boise State University in 2011.
It was during her MBA studies that she met Nate Burke, the love of her life. They married on September 7th, 2013, in McCall, Idaho. Together they built a family that became Alana's greatest joy and achievement. Alana was most proud of her family.
In 2023, Alana earned her Doctorate of Clinical Psychology Magna Cum Laude through California Southern University -all while navigating the challenges of the pandemic and raising two young children.
Alana was blessed with an infectious laugh and a quick sense of humor. We will always fondly remember her laughing over meals at Hyde Park during Packer games, on the dock in McCall, or around the couch during family movie time. Alana was friendly, caring, and unfailingly kind.
Alana was a wonderful sister and dear friend to Alyssa, as well as a deep source of pride and joy for her parents, Ellen and Marco. She was an outstanding and devoted friend. Alana loved traveling to Florida to see family; especially her beloved Oma. Her enthusiasm for learning and for travel took her across North America, through Europe, to South America, and to Asia. This love of travel she passed on to her children, whom will embrace and cherish the amazing memories spent together across the world.
Alana was also an amazing mother – to a tee. Through her endless love, support and encouragement, she helped nourish and culture her beautiful children to grow into wonderful people. Her love was unsurpassed. Not only was she an extraordinary mother, she was also a thoughtful and caring wife. Her drive to always put others before herself defined her as the unforgettable spirit she was. Alana's unwavering love and care for her family will never be forgotten.
Alana is survived by her husband Nate; their children Desmond (7) and Adley (6); her parents Ellen and Marco Meyer; sister Alyssa Meyer (Waco); in-laws Barb and Cam Burke; Megan Boutin (David), Lauren Walker (Brian); her extended family; and many lifelong friends. Alana's sensitive and caring nature set her apart as a person, and mere days after her passing her absence is already keenly felt.
A memorial celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Women and Children's Alliance at 720 W. Washington Street, Boise, Idaho 83702.
Published by Idaho Statesman from Sep. 19 to Sep. 22, 2025.