REGINA MARION BURKE took the Lord’s hand and walked home on April 18, 2002 at the age of 83 years. She was born on August 20, 1918 in Bellevue, Pennsylvania, the daughter of Joseph and Jeanette Trissler Ansman. She was raised in several Eastern and New England states until settling in Windsor, PA where she was a field hockey and basketball star at Windsor High School, graduating in 1937. During WW II she moved to Los Angeles, CA where she worked as a drafter, designing airplane parts. In 1948 she moved to Seattle, WA where she met the love of her life, Edward Burke and they were married on Sept. 30, 1950. It was there that she raised their three daughters, and along with the neighborhood children taught them poetry, sewing and Latin even before they started school.
She was an advocate for literacy and worked hard to bring a library and even a ballet school to her Skyway community. She was also active in the civil rights movement. She later moved to Skagit County where she was involved in literacy programs and the rights of migrant workers.
Regina was preceded in death by her parents and three brothers, Bob, Bill and Richard Ansman. She is survived by her loving husband of over 50 years, Edward, of Mount Vernon, WA. 3 daughters, Mary Burke of Seattle, WA, Barbara Burke of Bellingham, WA and Therese Quinn of Lake Stevens, WA. 3 grandchildren, Sean, Joe and Briana Quinn, and numerous nieces and nephews. Her family feels her spirit surrounds them with love. They also suggest memorials be made to a charity of your choice.
A Memorial Mass wll be held Tuesday April 23, 2002 at 11:00 A.M. at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Sedro-Woolley. Father Dan Chiezey, O.P., Celebrant.
Cremation and arrangements under the direction of Lemley Chapel, Sedro-Woolley.
You may view the obituary and share your thoughts and memories of Regina in the memorial guest book online at www.lemleychapel.com