Jeanette Kay Burke

Jeanette Kay Burke, known as Jean, was a beacon of light and inspiration whose journey on Earth began on November 23, 1940, in Saginaw, Michigan. Her life was a testament to the power of education, the strength of family, and the impact one individual can have on the lives of many. Jean's earthly chapter concluded on May 16, 2025, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, leaving behind a legacy of love, learning, and unwavering spirit.

Jean's life was marked by her dedication to nurturing young minds. With a Master's in Education from Michigan State University, she shaped countless futures through her role as a teacher at Forest Hills Public Schools. Her passion for education was recognized when she was honored as Michigan Teacher of the Year. Jean's expertise as a Gifted and Talented Consultant further highlighted her commitment to fostering the potential in every child.

Jean was the loving matriarch of a unit that saw her as their guiding star. She is survived by her son, Michael Burke; daughter, Patti Burke-VanDusen and her husband, Kurt; her special daughter-in-law, Kelly (nee Bowen) Burke; and her cherished grandchildren, Quinn, Avery, Aidan, Riley, and Hayden. Her siblings, Jim (Alice)Abbe, Mary (Randy)Johnson, and Mark (Anne) Abbe, along with her parents, Kenneth and Eleanor Abbe, were integral parts of her life's story.

Jean's interests extended beyond her professional life, deeply touching her community. She was a loyal and faithful friend, a caregiver to her grandchildren, and a helpful neighbor. Her generosity knew no bounds, and she was always ready to assist others in need and encourage them to be the best they could be. Jean's most famous phrase was "What can I do to help".

Generous, thoughtful, and faith-filled are words that merely scratch the surface of describing Jean. Her spirit was a wellspring of motivation, encouraging all who knew her to pursue their dreams with vigor and to face challenges with grace. Jean's unwavering faith guided her through life's trials and triumphs, and she instilled that same sense of hope and resilience in everyone she encountered.

Jean wanted it to be known that she is a Christian and "knows where she's going". To celebrate Jean's memory, please feel free to help someone in need or distress, play Scrabble with friends and listen to the birds sing. Before Jean passed, she expressed her love for friends and family, Forever and Ever, and repeatedly said that she was "so very grateful".