Dolores Burger
Jerseyville |
Dolores Ann Burger, 95, passed away at 7:15 a.m., Wednesday, February 19, 2025 at the Villas of Hollybrook in Jerseyville.
She was born on February 2, 1930, in Hannibal, Missouri, the daughter of the late Jacob and Anna (Kallal) Cabalek. Raised on the family farm in Jersey County, she developed a strong worth ethic and a deep appreciation for nature. She graduated from Jersey Township High School with the Class of 1948.
On August 7, 1954, Dolores married the love of her life, Maurice H. “Tootie” Burger, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Alton. The couple spent the first 25 years of their marriage in the Alton/Godfrey area before making their home in Dow in 1979. Their marriage was built on love, devotion, and a true partnership. When Tootie became disabled, Dolores remained steadfast in her role as a caregiver, ensuring he was always well cared for and deeply loved. Through every challenge, their bond remained unshaken, and they continued to support one another. Their life together was filled with adventure and laughter, with some of their happiest memories made on the water. Boating was one of their greatest joys, and Dolores wasn’t just along for the ride – she was a competitor in her own right, winning a women’s division boat race in Alton in the 1950s. Tootie preceded her in death on September 14, 2001, but the love and memories they built together never faded.
A woman of deep faith, Dolores was devout in her Catholic beliefs. She lived out her values through kindness, generosity, and an unwavering trust in God. Her faith was a guiding force in her life, providing her with strength, comfort, and a strong sense of purpose.
She carried that spirit of giving into all aspects of her life, including her love of shopping. She especially enjoyed visiting Neiman Marcus, not just for herself but because of the joy it brought to others. For Dolores, shopping wasn’t simply a hobby – it was an extension of her generosity. She found immense happiness in picking out the perfect gifts for family and friends, always looking for something special that would bring a smile to their faces.
Dolores also had a deep appreciation for nature, which she expressed through her love of gardening. She took great pride in her yard, carefully planting flowers and tending to her garden with patience and care. Her home was always surrounded by vibrant blooms, a reflection of the beauty she cultivated in her own life.
Her love extended beyond people to animals of all kinds. Whether it was birds, cats, or even raccoons, she had a soft spot for any creature in need. Her sunroom became a haven for countless animals she rescued, nurturing them back to health with the same warmth and care she showed to everyone in her life.
Dolores had an infectious sense of humor and a zest for life. She loved to laugh and had a sharp wit that brought joy to those around her, whether through a perfectly timed joke or simply by being her warm, welcoming self.
While Dolores and Tootie never had children of their own, they were richly blessed with the love of many nieces and nephews. They also formed a special, lifelong bond with the family of Jack and Virginia Steckel, sharing with them their passion for boating and creating cherished memories on the water. To the Steckel’s, Dolores wasn’t just a friend – she was family. She became a bonus family member, offering guidance, laughter and love in abundance. Her presence at their gatherings was a source of joy, and her absence will be deeply felt.
She is survived by a niece, Rosemary Shaw; as well as her beloved “bonus family” members who adored her: Virginia Steckel; Joe and Cheri Steckel; Mike “Monk” and Tammy Steckel; and their families, who will forever cherish her presence in their lives.
In addition to her parents and her husband, she was preceded in death by a brother, Jacob Cabalek Jr. and four sisters, Anna Rose Mongiat, Mary Louise Bridges, Loretta Reimer and Josephine Bidlake.
A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Jerseyville at 10 a.m., Thursday, February 27, 2025. Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Fieldon.
Memorials may be given to St. Francis/Holy Ghost Catholic School or to Masses.
Dolores lived a life full of love, laughter, faith and generosity. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered by those who were fortunate enough to know her.
Crawford Funeral Home in Jerseyville has been entrusted with arrangements. Memories may be shared by visiting www.crawfordfunerals.com
Crawford Funeral Home
