June 22, 1942 – August 1, 2024
Jean Burke, 81, of Ocala, formerly of Wakefield, Mi., passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, Aug. 1, 2024.
Jean was born on June 22, 1942, in Wakefield, the oldest daughter to Ralph and Laura (Maki) Olson. She was a 1961 graduate of Wakefield High School.
On Jan. 4, 1964, Jean married Walter “Buz” Burke in Grayslake, Illinois. They relocated to Florida in 1973.
Jean had a deep love of animals. She spent her life surrounded by the animals she adored, breeding and raising horses, and caring for a variety of creatures on her beloved Valley View Farm and beyond.
Jean and Buz were avid fishers, finding joy and tranquility in the many hours spent on the water. Their fishing trips were a source of great stories and fond memories.
A longtime fan of the Chicago Bears, Jean rarely missed a game and was known for her spirited support of her favorite team. Her enthusiasm for the Bears was matched only by her love for her family and friends.
Jean is survived by a son, Jeff (Angie), Cable, Wisconsin; a daughter, Liz (Glenn) Reedy, Layton, Utah; two grandchildren, Ryan Reedy, Layton, and Rachel Reedy, Orlando; two sisters, Barb Suomi, Wakefield, and Margaret Olson (Rod Waara), Phillips, Wisconsin; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins, who will forever cherish her memory and the love she shared with them.
Jean was predeceased by her husband, Buz, in 2022; her parents, Ralph, in 2000, and Laura, in 2017; and a sister, Lenore Olson, in 1992.
The family is honoring her life in a private service.
A committal service and interment will take place at the Lakeside Cemetery, Wakefield.
Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield, is assisting the family with arrangements. To send online condolences or to share a memory, please go to lakesidememorialchapel.com.
