William Burke

Bill was born to Della and Brown Burke and was a graduate of Peoria Heights High School. He married Brenda Kent in 1981, and they had two children, Brandon and Brittany. In 2005, he married Vicki Coonfer and became a father to her children, Daniel, Nicole, and Kathryn.

Bill is survived by his loving wife Vicki Burke, his children, Brandon (Lindsey) Burke, Brittany (Adam) Whisler, Nicole (John) Mefford, and Kathryn Smith. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Chance, Mason, Liam, William, Tony, Lucas, Jaekob, Izabella, Natalee, Jayce, Jacob, and Emmalyn.

Bill is also survived by his sisters, Cathy (Tom) Talley and Donna Burke; his aunt Fran Collier, along with his niece, nephew, and cousins, who were all very dear to him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Della and Brown Burke; his sister, Connie Hayes; his grandson, Steven Adam Whisler Jr.; his son, Daniel Coonfer; and his uncle Jerry Collier.

Bill worked as a delivery driver for many years before beginning his career in maintenance and E&I at Evonik, where he retired in 2024. He also served on the Emergency Response Team for 10 years.

Bill had many accomplishments throughout his life. He enjoyed martial arts and competed in drug–free powerlifting. He was a Midwest national champion in the ANPPC organization in 1995, 1996 and 1997 and he tied the drug-free world record in the deadlift.

Bill enjoyed pheasant hunting with his beloved dog, Max, and spending time fishing. Some of his favorite memories were made while teaching his grandchildren how to fish and archery. He enjoyed watching them play sports and loved making memories with them that he hoped they would carry with them forever.

Bill was a past president of the Pekin High School Wrestling Boosters. He was a member of Manito Community United Methodist Church, where he had served as a youth group leader. He was also a donor to ALS research, wanting to help others and contribute to finding answers for families affected by the disease.

Most of all, Bill enjoyed spending time with his family and dear friends. His family and friends will remember him for his kindness and generous heart, his devotion to those he loved, and the lasting memories he created.

Bill will be deeply missed and forever loved by all who knew him.

Cremation Rites have been entrusted to Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory Pekin Chapel. A celebration of life will be held on a later date.

Memorial contributions in honor of Bill may be directed to The ALS Association at https://www.als.org

To express condolences online visit www.Preston-Hanley.com