In Memory
Andrea Kay Burke
Jul. 29, 1938 - Jan. 5, 2015
SOUTH BEND - Andrea K. (Davis) Burke, 76, a lifelong resident of South Bend, passed away at 3:56 am Monday, January 5, 2015, at her home with her daughter, Kim, and granddaughter, Carly, by her side. Andrea was born July 29, 1938, in South Bend, to the late Orville Leo and Virgina Lucille (Hensel) Davis.
She grew up working in her father's restaurant inside the train station and Hills Snappy Service, serving President Roosevelt coffee. She was taught how to swim by Doris Day and grew up around Les Brown and His Band of Renown. Her home was also a boarding house for the women's South Bend Blue Socks team.
On November 17, 1956, in River Park Methodist Church, located across the street from her 5th generation home in River Park, Andrea married Jack E. Burke, who preceded her in death after 55 years of marriage. Also preceding were a daughter, Sabrina Ann; son, Barry Eugene Burke; and four brothers, Randall, Jon, Jim and Gary Davis.
Andrea found great pleasure in being a foster parent for 47 newborn babies throughout her life. She also took care of her grandmother for 17 years. She loved to cook and everyone always had a plate and the door was always open. She loved to crochet hats for the homeless and for cancer patients.
Andrea is survived by two daughters, Kimberley A. Burke and Deborah (Kevin) Dinkel; one son, Terry Lynn Burke; five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Deb was just a phone call away and always called to check on Mom and Dad. Kevin, her son-in-law, deserves a big thank you for being the son she needed.
Memorial contributions and donations may be made to Andrea and Jack's granddaughter, Carly Burke, who helped take care of both of her grandparents. She spent so many years of her life, hands on, with them for love. There will be no services at this time. Private services and burial will take place at a later date for both Andrea and Jack. Palmer Funeral Home - River Park and Southlawn Cremation Services are assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com, the South Bend Tribune or Facebook.
In God's hands united together again - a poem Andrea's grandmother wrote: Here I sit in my wheelchair, sometimes it is hard to bare, oh I could go to far off places, but my feet wouldn't carry me there. I cannot walk alone, Dear God, please take me by the hand. I've tried so many times, but I know you'll understand. I'll never run and jump again, for you see, I cannot stand. But in my heart, Dear God, I know you'll understand. But here I sit in my wheelchair, requiring a lot of care, I'd love to go to far off places, but my feet wouldn't carry me there. So please Dear God, take my hand, for I know you'll understand.
06/19/2021 DEC
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