Arlene E. Burk (Phillips)

Arlene E. Burk (Phillips) passed peacefully into the arms of Jesus on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at the age of 80, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born to the late Earl and Margaret Burk (née Wesselmann), Arlene lived a life full of grace, strength, and sparkle. She was the devoted mother of Sean (Nicole) Phillips and Tiffany Lang, and the beloved sister of the late Don Burk, Jim (the late Joan) Burk and June (the late Jake) Behnken. But above all, Arlene was a proud and cherished grandma to Catherine, George, Ben, Gavin, and Dylan—her greatest joy and the center of her world.

To know Arlene was to know warmth, laughter, and a touch of glamour. A talented hairdresser for 60 years, she brought beauty and confidence to countless lives. Her flair for fashion, love of jewelry, and fondness for QVC were just a few of the ways she expressed her vibrant personality. She found joy in shopping, ceramics, BINGO, cooking and baking for loved ones, decorating her home with care, soaking up the sun, and enjoying live music.

Arlene was also a 35-year cancer survivor whose resilience inspired everyone around her. Her strength was matched only by her heart, which she shared generously with her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

She was a loving aunt, cousin, and friend, and her legacy will live on in the stories, traditions, and love she passed down—especially through her grandchildren, who will forever carry her spirit in their hearts.

Arlene’s family finds comfort in knowing she is now at peace, reunited with loved ones, and watching over them with pride and joy.