Vernell Pape Burch

Vernell Pape Burch, 78, passed away peacefully on the evening of May 7, 2023, in San Antonio, TX. Proud to call herself a native Texan, she was a member of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas and a descendant of German immigrants who settled in New Braunfels, TX, in the 1840s.

Vernell was born on February 8, 1945, to Elmer and Melitta Weidner Pape, joining older brother David, in San Antonio, TX. She graduated from MacArthur High School in 1962 and went to The University of Texas at Austin, graduating in 1966 with a Bachelor’s of Business Administration. She returned to San Antonio to work in civil service at Fort Sam Houston. Shortly after, she met her former husband, Michael Burch, and they had two daughters, Barbara Burch Goutelon and Michelle Burch Martinez. After a stint in commercial real estate, Vernell worked for the Texas Department of Agriculture in the “Go Texan” marketing program until her retirement in 2005.

A cowgirl at heart, Vernell loved all things about farming and ranching. She was involved with the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo for almost 40 years, donating countless hours and serving on many boards and committees. She was a Director Emeritus of the San Antonio Livestock Exposition, a member of the South Texas Cattlewomen and a member of the South Texas Farm & Ranch Club.

In addition to supporting local museums and civic organizations, Vernell enjoyed travelling all over the world. She visited 46 states and 36 countries, and was hard-pressed to pick a favorite. Beyond travel, nothing could surpass the joy she found in spending time with her grandchildren.

Vernell was stylish and outgoing. She loved her family and friends and will greatly be missed by all who knew her. She is survived by her daughters Barbara (and husband Bertrand) and Michelle (and husband Giancarlo), her four grandchildren, Clayton, Travis, Nina and Natalie, numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

The family would like to express their sincerest gratitude to Remarkable Hospice and SA Caregivers, who provided tremendous love and compassion while Vernell was in their care.

Services will be held at Sunset Funeral Home on Friday, May 26 at 1PM, followed by a Celebration of Life. Joyful attire is requested.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the San Antonio Rodeo or Texas Parks and Wildlife

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.sunsetfuneralhomesa.com for the Burch family.