In Memory of Karla Burke

Karla loved animals (especially cats!) and was a generous supporter of many animal rescue organizations. 
She welcomed many fur kids into her heart and home.
We know that Nellie, Clementine, Igor, Sam, Andrew, Lucy, Tuffy, Fog
and Munchkin were but a few waiting for you at the Rainbow Bridge. 
Love, your sisters, Wendy and Lisa.

~~~

Karla Gayle Burke, 64, died October 21, 2021 from West Nile Virus after a brief and devastating illness.  She was loved and will be greatly missed by many, including her two sisters Wendy (Roger Karber) and Lisa (MaryAnne Majestic), her three aunts, many cousins, wonderful friends and her cat Sara.

Karla was a lifelong voracious reader who inherited her love of books from her mom Ann. Weekly trips to the library as a child continued throughout her life and brought her much joy as did participating in her book club, swapping books with her sisters and friends and supporting her public library.

Karla had many interests.  She loved to cook, entertain and decorate for the holidays and set a mean table with her vintage china. Following Duke men’s college basketball, visiting her home state of Michigan, road trips in general, exploring Europe, jigsaw puzzles, going to the movies and watching every minute of the Olympics were also enjoyed.

Karla was an avid letter writer and excelled in her role as the family historian and memory keeper.  She graduated from ASU with a history degree and from the inaugural class of the Scottsdale Culinary Institute after which time she worked as a professional chef and caterer.  She was able to retire from a long career as a Senior Manager for a pharmaceutical company and was proud of her many professional accomplishments.

Besides reading, Karla also loved animals (especially cats!) and was a generous supporter of many animal organizations.  The family asks, in lieu of flowers, for donations to be made to Wildhorse Ranch Rescue in Gilbert AZ by either mailing a donation to Wildhorse Ranch Rescue, P.O. Box 3080, Gilbert AZ 85299 or by clicking on her beautiful picture. 

This was one of Karla’s favorite local charities saving countless horses, burros, cats, dogs, peacocks and pigs.

A celebration of her life and sharing of memories will take place outdoors in early November with details of date and place still to be determined.

In lieu of flowers, The Family has asked that donations be made to