Fabienne Gurke

Fabienne Gurke, age 77, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2022 in Grand Prairie, Texas. She was born on October 15, 1944 in Paris, France to her loving mother, Jacqueline DeFilippis. At the age of 9, she and her mother came to the United States and made a life in Chicago, Illinois. She graduated from Proviso East High School in Maywood, Illinois in 1963. Fabienne went on to marry the love of her life, John Joseph Gurke, Jr. in 1967, and together they raised three sons, John, Philip and Tony.

Throughout her life, Fabienne wore many hats - from nurturing homemaker, Esthetician, owner of her own cake and candy supply store, and most recently, she retired after working as an Inclusion Aide for the GPISD for many years.

Fabienne best expressed her love for her family through food; she was a skilled baker and passionate cook. Some of her happiest moments were spent surrounded by her family on the holidays with everyone enjoying a delicious meal, cordials, games, and good conversation. Her sense of humor was contagious.

Fabienne was a symbol of unpretentious sophistication, quick wit, and gentle grace. Knowledgeable about topics such as history, art, and her rich ancestry, she was a gifted storyteller who always had an interesting tale to share. She had a sharp mind and was fluent in three languages, English, French, and Spanish. Her vivacious personality and hearty laughter never failed to light up the room.

Fabienne was a selfless person who found joy in helping those she loved, and making others feel special. She endlessly doted on her grandchildren and great-granddaughter, with whom she shared a very special bond. Fabienne will forever be remembered for her beautiful smile, caring heart, and independent spirit.

Fabienne is preceded in death by her husband, John Joseph Gurke, Jr.; mother, Jacqueline DeFilippis; mother-in-law, Frances Gurke; father-in-law, John Joseph Gurke; and her beloved poodle, Blanche Pâté Gurke.

She is survived by her son, John Gurke III and his wife, Shandy, grandsons, Joshua and Noah Gurke; son, Philip Gurke, grandchildren, Renee Minter and her husband, John; Nicholas Gurke, Bryanna “Bee” Gurke, Natalie Gurke, and their mother, Stefani Morelock; Tony Gurke and his wife, Jody; great-granddaughter, Emmy Rae Minter; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and close friends she loved dearly.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that friends and family consider making a donation or volunteering with the North Texas Food Bank in Fabienne's honor.

https://ntfb.org/get-involved/donate/