Mary E. Burks

Mary Ellen Burks, Lafayette, Indiana, passed away on February 4, 2025. Born Mary Ellen Simmermeyer on December 26, 1933, to Otto and Marie Simmermeyer of Batesville, Indiana, Mary attended St. Mary's of the Rock Grade School and Batesville High School. During her senior year Mary was named as the Versailles County Pumpkin Queen for their inaugural fall festival. Upon graduation in 1952, Mary worked for RomWeber Industries in Batesville. In 1955, Mary married Eulan (Cliff) Burks from Freeland Park, Indiana, and they lived the balance of their lives in Lafayette as members of St. Lawrence Parish. Mary was a teacher's aide for many years at St. Lawrence Grade School. In addition, Mary was also a very dedicated volunteer at St. Elizabeth Hospital, where she proudly received 25 Year Service Award. Those who knew Mary best remember her for her laugh, sense of humor, dedication to helping others, and her smile that could light up an entire room. Mary is survived by her children, Jim (Debbie), Debbie (Jim), John (Chris), Beth (Dan), Jason (Leslie), son-in-law John Burke and 14 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. Mary was proceeded in death by her husband Cliff, their daughter Suzan, her parents Otto and Marie Simmermeyer (Batesville), as well as her siblings: Theresa Sparks (Cincinnati), Robert Simmermeyer (Batesville), Esther Ransom (Lakeville), Augusta Ertel (South Bend), James Simmermeyer (New Carlisle), Johnny Simmermeyer (South Bend), Thomas Simmermeyer (Greensburg), and Mike Simmermeyer (Cincinnati).
Visitation will be from 12:00 pm until the time of the eulogy at 12:45 pm, followed by Mass of Christian Burial on Monday, March 3, 2025, at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Lafayette. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to St. Lawrence; Memo "Burks and Burke Scholarship Fund". Leave condolences and memories at www.soller-baker.com.