Jacob M. Burke

OREGON – Jacob Matthew Burke, 25, the son of Bob and Dawn Burke of Oregon, passed away Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2015, at Loyola Medical Center, where he had been a patient in the intensive care unit for 2.5 weeks.

Jake was an active student and athlete at both Oregon and Rock Falls High schools. More than winning, he enjoyed the game and playing it with his teammates. He went on to graduate from Western Illinois University, where he found inspiration in studying psychology. Among his many accomplishments, Jake would consider falling in love, spending time with his friends and family, and learning guitar as his favorite. His family will miss his warm smile, playful personality, and loyal heart.

Jake will be greatly missed by his parents, Bob and Dawn Burke of Oregon; sisters, Carrie Tinsman (Rob) of Anthem, Arizona, and Becky Merrill (Clayton) of Canton, Mississippi; brothers, Jason Coffman and Zach Coffman, both of Chicago, and Brett Burke of Oregon; his loving grandmother, Darlene Burke; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and countless friends.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Donald and Patricia Aulls; and paternal grandfather, Roger Burke, all formerly of Oregon.

His family would like to thank Dr. Goyal and team, and the many nurses and staff at Loyola Medical Center who took such loving care of Jake.

Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday at Farrell-Holland-Gale Funeral Home, 110 S. Seventh St., Oregon. Christian Funeral Mass will be at 10:30 a.m. Monday at St. Mary Catholic Church, 301 N. Fourth St., Oregon. Burial will follow at St. Mary Cemetery in Oregon.

Memorials may be directed to Special Olympics.

Go to farrellhollandgale.com to send condolences.