Robert "Bob" J. Burke

OREGON, IL ~ Robert “Bob” J. Burke was born on November 24th, 1950, in Dixon, IL the son of Roger & Dorothy “Darlene” (Boyden) Burke. He passed away, at the age of 73, quietly in his home on Friday, June 21, 2024, after a long, courageous battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his family and loved ones. Bob spent most of his life in Oregon, attending Oregon school district and graduated Oregon High School in 1968. He went on to college, graduating NIU in DeKalb, IL, in 1972. Bob was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic church of Oregon, IL.  He married the love of his life, Dawn Cline, on October 3, 1987. He spent most of his career in Graphic Arts and later owning and managing apartments in the Oregon area. He was an avid sports enthusiast, an Indianapolis Colts fan, and of course always cheering for his Atlanta Braves. Bob was very active in his children’s lives; he was always very active in coaching their teams. Aside from the love of his family and friends, Bob also enjoyed road trips with Dawn, playing card games like Blackjack and Euchre.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents, son Jacob Burke, and in-laws Donald and Patricia Aulls. Bob is survived and missed dearly by his loving wife Dawn (Cline) Burke of Oregon, IL; children Carrie (Rob) Tinsman, Brett Burke, Jason Coffman, Becky (Clayton) Merrill, Zachery Coffman; grandchildren Kate & Garrett Merrill, Cole & Dylan Burke; great-grandchild Lane Burke; brother-in-law Dana Cline; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and countless dear friends. 

The family would like to thank Dr Natalie Callendar and Dr Rob Hegemann and staff at The University of Madison for their expertise and compassionate care. We would like to extend a special thank you to the Care Team at Serenity Hospice and Home, especially Rachel and Amber. Your guidance and compassion helped us care for Bob with dignity and grace. We are forever grateful for your assistance.

Services in Bob’s honor have been scheduled for Wednesday, June 26, 2024, at Farrell Holland Gale Funeral Home of Oregon, IL. A funeral will begin at 11:00am with Father Bernie Sehr presiding. Visitation hours will be just prior to the funeral beginning at 9:00am until the time of service. Bob will be laid to rest next to his son at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery of Oregon, IL. Memorial donations are established in his name and may be directed to Serenity Hospice and Home of Oregon, IL.  

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