Elsie Burke

Elsie Burke, 84, of Packwood, Washington, passed away December 29, 2022 at Arbor Health Morton Hospital. Elsie was born August 31, 1938 at home on a farm, just outside of Hairy Hill, Alberta, Canada, to William and Vera Severin. She and her seven siblings grew up in Northeast Alberta, Canada.

In 1962 Elsie moved to the United States where she met her soon to be husband, James. She and James married July 27, 1964 in Reno, Nevada. Following their marriage, they shared two sons, James Jr. and Paul. They lived together in Seattle, with Elsie working at Bell Telephone Systems for 25 years. Elsie started there as a telephone operator and stayed with them for 25 years, retiring as a manager in 1991. She and James retired to Packwood for a change of pace.

Elsie was preceded in death by her father, William Severin; mother, Vera Severin; and her brothers, Lawrence and Triffon Severin.

Survivors include her husband, James; sons, James Jr. and Paul; Grandson, Camron; and her granddaughter, Cassandra.

Elsie liked to enjoy life, getting out to make memories. Skiing, traveling, and cruises were among her favorite things to do. She loved her family, she will be dearly missed.