Oh I'm so sorry to learn of this. Delores was the most amazing ASL teacher, who is the reason I got into interpreting back in the 90s, at SCCC. She was an absolute joy who I so loved seeing whenever our paths crossed. What a special and delightful person, who is, without a doubt, lighting up Heaven. Sending much love to her family.

To the family of Delores, please know that I am praying with you during this difficult time. Delores was such a wonderful and professional interpreter, she always encouraged me to pursue my ITP certificate.  I am so glad I was able to see her recently at the homegoing service of another wonderful woman, Ms. Linda Burgess.  Weeping may endure for a night but joy comes in the morning. See you in the morning, Delores. 
-Heather Clark

I got to know Delores in the late 1970s when she was taking Zimbabwean marimba lessons from Dumi Maraire, and  later was in an all-women's marimba group that I taught.  We re-connected 30 years later, after I had lived and taught many years in Zimbabwe and completed my ethnomusicology PhD.  Delores wanted to share Black Nativity with me and all her friends from many different areas of life. From there we began to go to concerts and shows together: Sweet Honey, Mavis Staples; jazz nights at the Central, Earshot Jazz. Plays at the UW and Seattle Rep. And feminist and gay comedy like Ham for the Holidays. And quirky indie queer shows at Theatre off Jackson. Delores had room in her heart for everyone, and especially embraced the marginalized.  
I will be playing mbira music from Zimbabwe at her service - want you all to know our connection if I am unable to express it in words.

I just wish to convey my sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Delores Burks. I harbor very fond memories of Delores which go years back to our ASL teaching days at what was then called Seattle Central Community College. I really have to thank her for suggesting that I teach American Sign Language when I didn’t even have the intention nor the background to teach in this field.  Because of her; ASL instruction became my career for 20+ years.  Delores always had a ready smile for everyone she ran into and she was just an amazing; dedicated ASL teacher and interpreter and an absolutely wonderful and compassionate lady.  I will never forget that huge classic car that Delores was always driving about and wondered how she managed to squeeze that monster into one of those tight parking spaces at Seattle Central.  Ah, Delores will be missed! With all my love, may you Rest In Peace.

Dearest Delores, 
You were always so kind and dear with me, guiding me through my first year of ITP and beyond. 
Your engaging smile, the kindness in your eyes, the sincerity in your greeting, and the way you said my name when we would meet up again, after another, “long-time-no-see.” 
I am off balance with the reality that we will never meet like that again. But those memories - and the feelings they evoke - are strong and clear. Now, when your name comes up in conversation, or in my own thoughts, I will smile and see – or hear – our exchanges and the catching up. 
Rest in peace dear one. You earned it, with a life well lived. 
Love, Roman


Delores was uniquely wonderful. There can never be anyone as exceptional as she. I loved her and I think my son Robin loved her as well. I miss her already and will always miss her. It is heartbreaking to lose her but she needed to go.

Delores was an important part of so many L'Arche events.  Her smile and her gracious presence are treasured memories.

I’ve heard as long as people think about you, you’re never really gone. You’ll be around for a while, my friend, as you’ve touched so many people.  Thanks for all you’ve done.   Get some rest.  Godspeed to you,  Delores.  

I have not seen her for some time but in vivid memories, she was a delightful and kind lady with such passions in ASL and Deaf community.   

Although I have not seen Delores in many years, she was always a warm spot in my time working in the Interpreting Community.  Blessings to Delores and her family and friends.   Alice

 I am so very sad to hear about this… As I did not know or anticipate it. 

 Dolores taught me ASL! She was loving, patient, kind, and  fierce  all at the same time! She was definitely a ball of fire. I’m going to look up into the sky tonight and I will see a star burning bright. And I’ll feel OK, because I know it’s her. 

Delores was up for adventures. One summer, we went to an outdoor concert together at the Woodland Park Zoo. Judy Collins sang about clouds and we watched a flock of birds fly overhead.  It was a beautiful evening. Delores and I both had mothers who needed care by that point, and just spending time enjoying life with a friend who understood was a balm for the spirit. Rest in peace, friend. 

Seems Delores lived  life and approached death  with  her special and individual style and grace. I will miss her open arms and smile that welcomed me into a hug amongst her fabulous colors and flow of clothing. 

Having owned a pink Rambler, I have fond memories of her big ole car.  Blessed to have known you.

I'm so sorry to hear of your passing. You were a delight.  Godspeed my friend. 



I’ll forever hold dear Delores in my heart ❤️. RIP dear friend, your bright smile, laughter & great spirit will be missed! I’m honored to have known & loved you! ❤️❤️❤️jm

OBITUARY

Delores Lindell Burks

November 7, 1944 – April 9, 2019

Butterworth Funeral Home - Arthur A Wright Chapel & Queen Anne Columbarium

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