Obituary of Helen Louise Burke

Helen Louise Burke, 92, of Girard, passed away Friday afternoon, May 20, 2022 at Cedarhurst Senior Living in Springfield, IL. Helen was born on January 26, 1930 to Victor Murphy and Giavonna "Nellie" (Billesimo) Bellegante in Girard, IL. On July 24, 1948 she married Thomas William "Bill" Burke at St. Catherine Catholic Church in Virden, IL. He preceded her in death on March 6, 2002. Helen was a cashier for the State Bank of Girard for 19 years, then worked for the State of Illinois, Department of Revenue as a tax analysis for another 19 years before retiring. She was an avid bridge player and was a member of the Route 66 Bridge Club over 50 years. She enjoyed crocheting, spending time with family, and excursions to "the Boat". Her family said she was very lucky. Helen was a wonderful baker and was known for her chocolate and coconut cream pies, and her grandkids say her chocolate chip cookies. She loved spending time with her family, grandsons and her great-grandchildren. Helen is survived by her son, William A. (Kathy) Burke of Auburn, IL; daughter, Patti (Bill) Tweryon of Rochester, IL; four grandsons, Brian (Heather) Tweryon, Brad (Devin) Tweryon, Phil (Stephanie) Burke, and Mike (Teresa) Burke; 7 Great-Grandchildren; sister-in-law, Betty Garbin of Girard, IL; several nieces and nephews. Helen was preceded in death by her parents, Victor Murphy and Giavonna "Nellie" Bellegante, husband, Thomas William "Bill" Burke, 3 sisters and 1 brother. Visitation will be held Thursday, May 26, 2022, from 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, 745 W. Center, Girard, IL. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, May 26, 2022, at 1:30 pm at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, 745 W. Center, Girard, IL, with Fr. James Palakudy, officiating. Burial will follow in the Union Chapel Cemetery. After the service, family and friends are invited to St. Patrick's Hall for a time of food and fellowship. Memorials are suggested to the St. Patrick's Catholic Church or the Girard Rescue Squad. Davis-Anderson Funeral Home in Girard is assisting the Burke family.