Therese A. Burdey

Therese Ann Burdey 2/4/46 - 3/11/21 of Milwaukee and a Messmer High School Graduate, was an incredible woman who exemplified unconditional love. As a life-long learner, Therese broadened her knowledge through experiences and formal education. She earned an LPN license and spent many years as a nurse at De Paul Bellevue treatment center. Later in life, the rigorous program at Alverno College included a marine studies class that took her to the Bahamian Field Station on San Salvador Island, a treasured research experience. Once she earned her MBA from the University of Louisville, Therese found great fulfillment taking on new challenges leading the exciting Innovation Center. She coordinated a branch of research among Humana, AstraZeneca and the University of Miami, the early days of tracking biomarkers and guiding people to healthier lifestyles. Therese fought to develop her skills in a world not designed for single mothers in the early 70’s, and she modeled strength and independence to her children. Therese had many interests and often brought the kids along for the ride. She had a passion for animals, camping in the North woods, bird watching at Horicon Marsh, sailing on Lake Michigan, and bringing family together by cooking delicious meals or acting as sous chef at her sister’s home in Green Bay. Therese LOVED to travel. Italy topped the list of enriching destinations, as well as thebreath-taking Alaskan cruise. Therese’s smiling eyes and hearty Slovak laugh invited people in. She’s already terribly missed by her daughters, Kim, Dani & Jacque Jurewicz (Colin Jorgenson), son Chris Jurewicz, Grandson Zach Jorgenson, sister Judy Burdey, brothers Mike and Tom (Candi) Burdey, nephews Mike and Eric (Lizzie) Jorgenson, her adored great niece, Yvie, and other loving family and friends. The welcoming party in heaven surely included her parents, Frank and Mary (Hromada) Burdey, sister Margie, and brother Bob. A service commemorating Therese while honoring Jesus, will occur on Saturday, March 27, at The Ridge Community Church in Greenfield, Wisconsin. A socially distanced and masked gathering will occur from 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm, followed by a service and time to share favorite memories.