He was born on September 21, 1951, in Kewanee, IL, and raised in Danville, the son of Jerry and Mary R. (Orr) Burk.
Michael earned his master’s degree in sociology from Sangamon State University. He went on to work as a manager at Best Buy. Michael loved cars, travelling, history, animals, watching old shows on tv, and spending time with his extended family and dear friends, Jeremiah and Valerie Ray.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Michael is survived by his sister, Mary (Michael) Heffernan of Danville; niece, Katie (Lance) Vanvekoven of LaFayette, IN; nephew, Ryan (Kye Hawkins) Heffernan of Indianapolis, IN; great-nieces, Caryss and Quinn Vanvekoven, both from LaFayette, IN; great-nephews, Max and Kip Heffernan, both from Indianapolis, IN; and his dear cat, Izzy.
Cremation will be provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center, prior to services.
The family will be hosting a Celebration of Life for Michael at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to: ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) at www.aspca.org
The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home – Springfield, 900 S. Sixth St., Springfield.
