Marion Rita Burke

Marion Burke, 98, was born December 8, 1923 in Wilkesberry, PA. During her formative years she learned invaluable lessons in the areas of home management and home design. Marion was raised in a military family where she learned such virtues as self-discipline, honesty, and courage to face the challenges of life. At the age of 17 years old Marion enlisted in the military in the area of draft design.

After serving in the military, she relocated with her husband, Edward Burke, to Cape Coral, Florida and they were among the group of pioneer residents of the city. During this time, she embarked on a career as a manager at the Family Hardware Store where she worked for over two decades. Marion served as a chapter commander for the local Disabled Veterans (DAV) Chapter 108. In conjunction with the serving as a chapter commander, she also was instrumental in starting a women’s auxiliary chapter for the DAV in Cape Coral, Florida. She received a notable award as commander of the year in the state of Florida. Marion was also well-known as an attendee at the national DAV conventions for several decades. Until her death, Marion remained a member of the DAV 108.

Throughout her lifetime, Marion donated to several charities and organizations. In particular, she was very committed to assisting with the charitable causes of Reverend Dr. Kenneth B. Thibodeau, who was the chaplain of the Disabled Veterans Chapter 108, while Marion served as the Commander for 108. Once Reverend Kenneth B. Thibodeau began to hold a post as chaplain for the new chapter of Boys Scouts in the state of Colorado, Marion also continued to assist benevolently. Marion was a true humanitarian who believed in serving and uplifting others in their time of need.

Marion enjoyed decades of traveling to the casinos both locally and nationally. She would often venture on casino trips alone well into her 90’s. She cherished weekly phone conversations with her relatives and friends across the country. Marion also enjoyed eating out at her favorite restaurants of choice. Marion’s professed faith as a Catholic and was a member of Saint Andrews Catholic Church in Cape Coral, Florida.

Marion Burke departed this life on Saturday, August 14,2021 and is survived by her relatives Elaine and Mark Palughi, Carla Mack, Gerald Ellman, and a host of other endeared family members and friends.