Joanne Burke Obituary
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1928-2025
Marion "Joanne" Burke, lovingly known to many as "Momma Jo," passed away peacefully on October 22, 2025, at the age of 97.
Born and raised in Southeastern Iowa, Joanne graduated from Donnellson High School in 1946. Shortly after graduation, she moved to Kansas City, Missouri, where her sister, Glenna, Barbara, and Marjorie had settled. It was there that she met the love of her life, Lewis M. "Pete" Burke. They were married in 1951, and together they built a beautiful life in Gilman City, Missouri.
To this union were born six children – three sons and three daughters: Bruce, Jenny, Brian, Brett, Jama, and Jill. Joanne's greatest joy in life was her family. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother whose home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and the comforting aroma of something baking in the oven.
Joanne was well known for her delicious cooking, especially her famous pies, which were loved by family, friends, and neighbors alike. She also enjoyed working in her yard, tending to her flowers, bird watching, and spending time outdoors surrounded by nature.
She leaves behind to mourn her loss her children: Bruce (Rose) Burke, Jenny (Jay) Russell, Bret (Kelley) Burke, Jill King (Jay Phelps), and Jama Burke; grandchildren, Karye, Brent, Bradley, Alisha, Ashley, Grant, Alex, Ashley, and Alyssa; and 12 great grandchildren.
Joanne was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Pete; her son, Brian; her parents; her brother, James Shufflebarger; and her sisters, Marjorie Anderson, Barbara (Henry) Brown, and Glenna (Robert) Corbin.
Her legacy of love, faith, kindness, and family will continue through her children, grandchildren, and all who were blessed to know her. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered in our hearts.
Private Burial was held in Masonic Cemetery, Gilman City, MO under the direction of Roberson Funeral Home, Bethany, MO. Memorials may be made to North Kansas City Hospice and Palliative Care and/or Masonic Cemetery in care of Roberson Funeral Home, P.O. Box 46, Bethany, MO 64424. Online condolences may be left at www.robersonfuneralhome.com.
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