Madonna Marie Burke

Madonna (Donna) Marie Burke was born February 9, 1927 in Clinton, Iowa. The third child of Martin and Josephine Krogman, she would eventually have seven brothers and one sister. As the oldest daughter living on the family farm, she longed to move away from the farming life and start anew in the city. It was there in the small city of Clinton, Iowa that she met James Burke while he was on leave and still active in the Army-Air Force during the time of WWII. After he was honorably discharged, they wed at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Clinton on May 22, 1946. Donna taught in a one room school house during the early years of her marriage. Not long after their marriage, she gave birth to the first of their three children, James Brian Burke. He was followed by a daughter Corinne Marie four years later. Keith Allen was born at the end of 1960.

Donna was primarily a homemaker as her husband’s work took them to Pueblo CO, Omaha NE, Madison WI, Pomona CA, back to Madison and then back to California where they remained. Donna was an avid golfer and bridge player. Competitive in both, she was more than able to hold her own. In early 1999 we lost our father and her husband of 53 years which was a difficult transition. Having been her constant companion, she was now left alone in the house. Her grandson Keith soon accompanied her in the house for ten years which gave her new meaning and accompaniment.

As she became older, golf gave way to playing more bridge which truly was a great source for spending time with her friends. When not spending time with her friends, she counted on her regular phone check-ins with her children and family with many in-person visits throughout the year. Donna was a weekly adherent to her Catholic faith ensuring her presence at mass each Saturday night and Holy days. In between these interactions she loved watching just about any sport on TV.

On Feb 5, 2026 Donna became seriously ill. She passed away peacefully the morning of Feb. 7, 2026. Keith was able to be present with her and hold her while keeping Jim and Corinne on the phone with her during her final moments. She left us for Eternal rest with the Lord at 7:40am.

Although the loss of any loved one is difficult, our family takes faith in the knowledge that she too rests eternal with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Donna is survived by her children Jim (Christie) of Ada MI, Corinne Smolarek (Tom) of Oakland CA, and Keith (Linda) of Olalla WA. Her Brother Merle (Mary) of Freeport, IL and her Sister Joan of Dubuque, IA. Additionally she is survived by 9 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

If you would like to make a donation in her memory please go to www.woundedwarriorproject.org and check the box for "Make this gift in honor or memory of an individual".

Rest in peace mom, you will always be with us.