Obituary

Paul M. Burke, Jr., 70, passed away November 26, 2024. Paul was born on April 7, 1954 in Janesville, Wisconsin to Paul and Beverly Burke, the third of seven children. He graduated from Hononegah High School in 1972 and started Makerite Manufacturing with his parents that fall. Makerite continues to be a successful aerospace manufacturing company and was a great source of pride for Paul. He had two sons with his first wife, and in 1988 married Lori. They built a great life together in Roscoe and Waikoloa Village, Hawaii.

In addition to his work, Paul enjoyed golfing, hunting with his father-in-law, cheering on his beloved Bears, traveling the world, eating good food, and spending time with family and friends, especially the wonderful friends he met at The Pointe. He loved being with Lori, wherever they were, most of all.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved in-laws, Bill and LaVada Johnson, and one brother.

Paul is survived by his wife Lori, sons Adam and Aaron, niece Dawn (Todd) Leach, nephew Jeff (Michele) Sundstedt, great-niece Morgan Sundstedt, and great-nephew Charlie Leach. They lit up his heart. He is also survived by three sisters and two brothers.

Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, December 6, 2024 at Fred C. Olson Chapel, 1001 Second Ave., Rockford. Visitation will be from 1:00 to 1:45 p.m. prior to the service. He will be laid to rest in a private ceremony for the family at Scandinavian Cemetery. Social Hour at the Rockford Country Club from 4:00- 5:30 p.m. To share a memory or condolence, please visit olsonfh.com.