Laura Mae Burke

Laura passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at her home with her family lovingly by her side at the age of 92. She was born May 29, 1934, in Bay City, Michigan, to the late William and Margaret (VanAkker) Pickering. Laura was a 1952 graduate of T.L. Handy High School and was a member of St. Alban’s Episcopal Church.

Laura had a zest for life and enjoyed traveling, dancing, and playing a variety of games with her friends and family. She treasured the friendships she made throughout her life and especially cherished the time she spent with her family. Her love, kindness, and devotion to those she held dear will be deeply missed.

Laura is survived by her 3 children, Debra Burke (Tom), David Burke (Jennifer), Laurie Burke (Rochel); four sisters, Gail Kipfmiller, Janice Feinauer, Linda Allen, and Peggy Hale; grandchildren Kristin Wall, Matt Burke (Crystal), Amelia Lutey, Alicia Genges (Dennis), Melissa Babcock (Danny), Eric Rozek (Monique), Logan (Kaitlyn), Rachael, Riley Kokaly; great grand-children Emma Wall (Dylan) and Jordyn Wall; and a great-great grandson, Elijah; special friend, Sharon Buchanan; and many nieces and nephews. The family would also like to extend a special thank you to her caregivers, Mikayla, Renay, Tammy and Toni.

In addition to her parents, Laura was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Warren Burke, in 2008.

A Funeral Service will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at Gephart Funeral Home. The Rev. Nancy Mayhew will officiate, with private interment to follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery. Friends and family may visit with the family at the funeral home from 11:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. until the time of the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Camp Fish Tales or the Toni & Trish House.