Karen Lee Burke

Karen Burke, age 79, of Westerville, formerly of Upper Arlington, passed away on Friday, April 4th, 2025. Born and raised in Wheeling, WV, Karen graduated from Wheeling High School. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Kenneth, parents, Arthur and Mary Burley, and sister, Linda Szeligo.

Karen pursued a career in nursing and earned her Nursing Degree from Ohio Valley Medical Center Nursing School, followed by a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at The Ohio State University. Her dedication to helping others was evident throughout her career at Grant Medical Center, where she was greatly respected and loved by her colleagues.

Karen was a devoted wife to Ken and a loving mother to Allison and Aric. She cherished spending time with her family, especially her children and grandchildren. Before her illness, Karen and Ken had a passion for travel, exploring remote tropical destinations and enjoying cruises in the Caribbean and Pacific. Karen had a passion for jewelry making and beading, which allowed her to express her creativity and bring joy to those around her through her beautiful creations.

Karen leaves behind her children, Allison Burke (Monroe Nelson) and Aric Burke; grandchildren, Ryan and Ethan Burke, and Sydney Burke Nelson; her brother and sister-in-law, Allan and Joan Burke; along with nieces, nephews and many other relatives and dear friends. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her. A special thank you to her longtime caregiver Renee Cartwright, who was with her until the very end.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Karen’s life during a Memorial Service at 5:30pm on Monday, April 14, 2025 and a Celebration of her Life from 6:00-8:00 PM at SCHOEDINGER NORTHWEST, 1740 Zollinger Rd. Columbus, OH.

In honor of Karen's courageous battle with Parkinson’s, memorial contributions may be made to the National Parkinson's Foundation. To share memories or condolences, please visit www.schoedinger.com.