Maureen Theresa Burk

Maureen Theresa Burk, born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on November 6, 1944 to James A. and Frances A. (Brophy) Burk, passed away peacefully on April 21st, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and unwavering dedication.

Maureen is survived by her brothers, James (Isabelle) Burk, III of West Chester, Kevin (Susan Teears) Burk of Norristown, and a special sister of her heart Janine McNelia of Salisbury, Maryland.

She was preceded in death by her sister, Barbara (Thomas) McCarthy.

She was a loving and devoted mother to her two daughters, Jennifer Baranowski (Ronald) DiLeo and Barbara Baranowski (James) Wood who were among her greatest joys.

Maureen was also a loving Grandmother to Sean Kirkpatrick of Bridgeport, Daniel Wood of King of Prussia, and Alyssa Wood (Nikolai) Zadroga of King of Prussia.

Affectionately known as “Grandmom” to Sean and “Mimi” to Daniel and Alyssa, she held a special and unique bond with each of her grandchildren. Maureen’s grandchildren brought her immense joy, and she cherished every moment spent with them.

Maureen began her career with the Bulletin newspaper in Philadelphia, where she was a valued and dedicated employee. She later worked for the Times Herald newspaper in Norristown in classified sales, where she became widely respected for her professionalism, determination, and leadership. She played a pivotal role in unionizing the Times Herald and advocating for her fellow employees. Maureen’s colleagues recognized her integrity and strength by electing her president of the union, a position she held with pride and dedication for 16 years. Following her presidency, she continued her advocacy work with the Newspaper Guild of Philadelphia, where she remained committed to supporting workers and advancing fair labor practices.

Maureen had a deep love of music throughout her life. One of her favorite pastimes was attending live performances to watch her brother, Kevin, perform with his band—a joy she treasured and looked forward to. Maureen’s deep love for music and joyful spirit contributed to her love for dancing, especially tap dancing, which she passed that love on to her granddaughter Alyssa.

Maureen was also an avid reader and had a deep appreciation for the English language. She loved to travel and explore the world. Ireland held a special place in her heart, along with many cherished trips to destinations such as Cancún, Mexico; New Orleans, Louisiana; Chincoteague, Virginia; Florida , Boston , Colorado, California; and the beaches of New Jersey.

Maureen was faith-filled and found peace and joy in her love of angels and the knowing she would be reunited with family gone before her. That brought her serenity, and brings comfort to those she left behind. Though our hearts are broken, we find peace knowing Maureen is now surrounded by love in Heaven, reunited with family, and watching over everyone with the same warmth she gave so freely in life.

A private service with immediate family will be held to honor and celebrate her life.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly invites donations in Maureen’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association and the American Lung Association. These organizations are especially meaningful to the family, and it is their hope that contributions made in her honor will continue to support research, care, and awareness for others facing these illnesses.

https://www.lung.org

https://www.alz.org