Robert Edward Burke, 71, of Galesburg, died peacefully at home, Saturday, May 27, 2023 .
Bob was born June 4, 1951 in Galesburg, Illinois, the son of Robert J. and Lois (Howes) Burke. Bob attended catholic schools and graduated from Galesburg High School. He honorably served his county in the United States Air Force. Bob went on to a 41-year career at Blick Art Materials, retiring in 2016.
Bob was united in marriage to Jodi Gail Anderson on September 3, 2016 in Galesburg. Jodi survives of Galesburg; as do his siblings, Tim (Barbara Stowe) Burke of Benzonia, Michigan, Jane (Leonard) Antosiak of Ypsilanti, Michigan, and Ann (Chris) Pemberton of Clinton, Michigan. Bob is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and great nieces, and great nephews; and his beloved K-9 companion, Chipper. Bob was preceded in death by his parents.
Bob loved going to Innkeeper’s Coffee, where he would enjoy not only coffee but many conversations with his friends. He loved talking with and helping people and will be remembered for his generous heart. He volunteered his time with St. Vincent De Paul Food Pantry as well as Knox County Right to Life. He was a devoted catholic and member of Corpus Christi Catholic Church and a member of Father J. O. Hunt Knights of Columbus Council 556. Bob loved to read newspapers and was a loyal Chicago Cubs and Notre Dame Fighting Irish fan.
Visitation will be 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday, June 2, 2023 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg with the rosary being prayed at 7:00 p.m. Funeral Mass will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, June 3, 2023 at Corpus Christi Catholic Church. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, Galesburg. Memorial contributions may be made to Knox County Right to Life or the Society of St. Vincent De Paul. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.
