Geraldine "Gerry" Bourke

In Loving Memory of Geraldine "Gerry" Bourke June 2, 1935 - September 30, 2023 Geraldine "Gerry" Bourke, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away on September 30, 2023, at the age of 88. She was born on June 2, 1935, to the late Bert and Vi Kuhlman. She was the beloved sister of Ann (Don), Mary Lou (Mike), Cathie (Terry), and the late Bernie. Gerry is also survived by her children, raising Ed (Tish), Mike (Warren), Kevin, and Bob (Julie), and her step-children Lori, Rick (Mary), and Tim (Sandy), whom she embraced as her own. Gerry was a grandmother to Paul, Julie, Sean, Marie, Bobby, Ryan, and Ryder, filling their lives with love, stories, and endless treats. She cherished her role as a grandmother and found immense joy in watching her family grow. Additionally, she had the privilege of being a step-grandmother to four more grandchildren and had the pleasure of witnessing the birth of five great-grandchildren and nine step-great-grandchildren. Gerry's life was marked by love, laughter, and a zest for living. She married the love of her life, Jack Bourke, and together, they built a beautiful family. As a mother, she devoted herself to her children, raising them with unwavering love and support. After Jack's passing, life had another beautiful chapter in store for Gerry. At the age of 75, she met Kip Miller, and their love story was a testament to the idea that love knows no age. They shared nearly 14 wonderful years together, filled with joy, companionship, and adventure. Music was a lifelong passion for Gerry, and she shared her melodious voice and love for singing by performing in a band. She had an eye for collecting pictures and awards, each holding cherished memories close to her heart. Gerry's creative spirit shone brightly in her love for decorating her home for the holidays, bringing joy to her family and friends. Gerry's entrepreneurial spirit led her to co-own the beloved restaurant "Bourke's Steak and Stein" in Charlevoix with her first husband, Jack. The restaurant was a testament to her dedication and the warmth she extended to all who entered. A graduate of St. Mary's High School in Redford, class of 1953, Gerry maintained lifelong friendships with her classmates, a testament to her enduring and loving personality. She was an active member of the Church at St. Mary's, where her faith was a source of strength and community. Gerry's life was a beautiful melody, composed of love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to her family and friends. Her legacy of love and joy will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who knew her. She leaves behind a tapestry of memories and a legacy of love that will be cherished for generations. Gerry will be dearly missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of her loved ones. Visitation will be held at O’Brien/ Sullivan Funeral Home on Wednesday, October 4, 2023 from 3:00 PM until 8:00 PM. A Funeral Mass to celebrate Gerry's life will be held on Thursday, October 5, 2023 at 10:30 AM, with a brief instate period beginning at 10:00 AM at St. James Catholic Church 46325 W 10 Mile Rd, Novi, MI 48374. The service will be live streamed at www.stjamesnovi.org The family requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the Alzheimer’s Association, or to the Disabled American Veterans in memory of Gerry. Please join us in celebrating the life of a remarkable woman whose love and laughter touched the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know her. Gerry's memory will forever be a source of comfort and inspiration to us all.