Therese Dunand Burkey, 98, passed away October 25, 2023. Family and Emerald Heights Corwin Center staff (many became like family) were with her prior to her passing in her sleep during that evening.
Therese was born in Ponteix, Saskatchewan, Canada, July 29, 1925. She was raised in Val Marie, Saskatchewan where she graduated from high school in Val Marie with the Sisters of the Assumption. She then attended the radiology technology school at St. Boniface Hospital in Manitoba where she earned her X-ray technician certification. She was later drawn to the U.S. where she was hired by her future husband (Jack) to work in Seattle, WA.
She and Jack got married in 1963, then moved to Longview where she spent most of her life. She wanted to complete her education and went to Lower Columbia Community College in Longview for 2 years before transferring to University of Washington in Seattle for her last two years, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in history.
Therese was very sociable, which kept her quite busy. In Longview, Therese was involved with St. Rose catholic church and frequently was lector at masses. She belonged to the Altar Society - St. Rose Circle. She also belonged to the Ladies Medical Auxiliary Society, Children's Hospital Guild, St. John's Hospital Guild, the Century Club, Longview Country Club, and the Washington Athletic Club.
She loved sports including skiing, tennis, golf, ice skating, and bowling. She also loved to play the piano and sang in the church choir. In her later years, she loved playing bridge with her friends.
After the passing of her husband in 2014, Therese moved to Redmond to be closer to her remaining family. While living at Emerald Heights she became known as the best dressed resident drawing from her expansive wardrobe. She was always looking to dine with family and friends at every meal. She also had a great sense of humor and would easily laugh at herself when having a senior moment. She formed great relationships with staff at Emerald Heights, especially those in memory care at the Corwin Center.
She was a loving and caring mother to the end. She will be fondly remembered and greatly missed.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years Jack and her two stepsons John and Jay Burkey and is survived by her son Jeff and presumably Jim and her three stepchildren, Judy, Jeanne, and Jane.
A funeral mass is planned for 9 a.m. Wednesday at St. Jude's Church, Redmond. Interment will follow at 2 p.m. at Longview memorial Park.
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