It is with profound sadness and gratitude for an extraordinary life well lived that we announce the passing of Teresa Burke who left us peacefully on Tuesday July 13, 2021 at her sister’s home in Arnprior after a courageous battle with ovarian cancer. Teresa was in her 60th year and predeceased by her parents Bryan and Frances Burke. She leaves behind her siblings Christine Tammadge (John), Stephen Burke (Marian), Kathleen Burke and Dennis Burke. Precious and much loved aunt to Beth Malloch-Leclair(Marcel), Cameron Burke(Genevieve), David Tammadge(Flor), Mary Tammadge(Alex), and Fraser Burke(Ananda). She will be fondly remembered by her great nephews and nieces Liam, Mattaye, Hailey, Ritchie, Cassidy, Devon and Emily.
She shared her love of nature and everything outdoors with her many friends . This included canoeing, camping, hiking and, skiing. She enjoyed travelling, meeting new friends and visiting family in western Canada. Her love of sun and fresh air was lived through each day until the very last. Her artistic flair included playing the flute and piano, sewing, photography and trying out new recipes. She was very fond of her pet rabbits Top Hat and Tizzie.
Teresa was a microbiological supervisor with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.
Due to Covid19, the family will hold a private funeral service at the Beechwood Cemetery on Tuesday July 20, 2021 at 1 pm. For those wishing, the service can also be viewed live streamed by registering with the link above. A celebration of life will be held at a later date where friends and family can share stories of Teresa.
A special thank you to Dr. Fishman and nurse Amanda for their exceptional palliative home care which enabled Teresa to live her final days with family. In lieu of flowers donations to Ovarian Cancer Canada, Help Lesotho, or to the charity of your choice in Teresa’s name would be appreciated.
Digital Guestbook
Karen Beaudoin
Diana Viljoen
While I hadn't seen Teresa for many years, I remember her with great fondness from the hiking/camping trips to Algonquin and many parties in the '80's. A lovely spirit in life, she will carry on in our memories with that infectious smile and joyful nature. Deepest sympathies to her family, friends and colleagues.
Elizabeth Rohonczy
I worked on the same floor as Teresa at the lab. I loved her smile and will miss her greatly. We shared an interest in travel and some international projects - such as demining initiatives. We talked about environmental issues ( she lived an environmentally conscientious lifestyle long before it was "in" ) and gardening (much about her work at the Shepherd's of Good Hope garden project). And, I was most honoured!!! as she would save me a piece of the much coveted Christmas Stollen that was received each year at the lab from Germany. Teresa was a true public servant - in the most honourable and professional sense of the term. She was kind, community conscious and made the world a better place in so many ways. It is a great loss that she is gone far too soon. My sincere condolences to her family and closest friends.
Marie-Lynn Savoie
My sincere condolences to Teresa's family. I met her via Ottawa Outdoor Club and am so grateful that she was part of my life. She will grately be missed. We will think of her when we hike or canoe. I was amazed by her positive outlook on life and her illness. When I would see her, I knew she has a lot of pain and she would walk with us while chating. An amazing person has died. Be at peace Teresa xxoo
Peter Domitrovits and Justine Lafond
We fondly remember Teresa at concerts at St Joseph's Church, her love for live music performances was refreshing. I (Peter) always recall her holding her own quite well with the antics of her brother Dennis, my lifelong friend, and me. She is indeed precious!
Jacinda Flood
I had the great pleasure of knowing Teresa through coffee breaks and social events at the CFIA. She always had such interesting stories to tell and was cheerful, had a great sense of humour, and took a genuine interest in everyone else's lives. I remember at the last Christmas party, she took great glee in hiding a colleague's Christmas prize and had us all in stitches when a gift stealing war broke out! She definitely had a zest for life. She has left a huge hole and she will be dearly missed. My prayers and condolences to her family and friends.
Jennifer Dunlop
I am so sorry for the family's loss. It was a pleasure to have known Teresa. She sure did have a craving for adventure and the great outdoors. She was taken way too soon. Thinking of you all. Take care
Emilie
Teresa was my supervisor for 7 years and it was very sad news to hear of her passing. She was an amazing person always very respectful, kind spirited and hard working. She talked a lot about her love for her niece and her kids, Liam, Hailey and Emilie. I can certainly say that I am a better person for knowing her. My sincere condolences to her family and friends. Teresa, you will be missed.
Sophie Gabard
Teresa was a joy of life. She was always ready for new adventures in the great outdoors. Her life was busy by sharing her times with friends, going to cultural events and travelling to the Laurentide's. I discovered new place because of her love and preservation of nature. It was difficult to see her leaving us and she has filled me and my friends with marvellous memories.
Cammie Grenier
I had the great pleasure of working with Teresa at CFIA. As my supervisor she was patient, kind and respectful. She always encouraged and supported her employees in career advancement opportunities for which I am very grateful. Outside of the lab she participated in social events and break time with a smile of her face. She always took the time to ask about my kids and shared many stories about her nieces and nephews whom she loved very dearly. I always enjoyed hearing about her travels around the world or on the ski hills. My sincerest condolences to her family and friends. Teresa, thank you for everything you have done for me, you will be missed! XO.
I worked beside Teresa for several years at CFIA and shared many 4th floor breaks/lunches and social gatherings over the holidays. Teresa was kind, had great team spirit -dragon boating, always willing to lend a helping hand. My deepest condolences to the family.