Helen Burch, 83, a resident of Cleveland, passed away Friday, September 21, 2018, at her residence surrounded by her family and friends.
She was a beloved mother, daughter, wife, grandmother, and great grandmother.
Helen's rich life included an accomplished nursing career which spanned over 30 years. She graduated in Cleveland State Community College's first Nursing class in 1969, and went on to gain additional credentials in nursing. During her career she served in various nursing roles including Nursing Instructor, Operating Room Nurse, and Industrial Nurse. Helen was also a gifted and creative artist who throughout her life enjoyed creating many beautiful paintings, sculpting clay, and creating intricate jewelry and other articles. She had a keen eye and a passion for antiques, and enjoyed identifying and celebrating her "treasure" finds. She was cherished by her friends and family for her affection, strength, humor, wit, hospitality, and most of all her care and compassion for others.
She is survived by her son Jim Burch, her daughter Joy Gallaher, grandchildren Jamie Burch Lofgren (Brandt), Lauren Herald (Rich), Patrick Gallaher, Jason Burch (Charlene), Stephen Gallaher, Rachel Gallaher, Esther Gallaher and Micah Gallaher, great grandchildren Leah Walker, Ben Walker, Miriam Walker, Dagny Walker, Rees Lofgren, Konner Gallaher, Colton Herald and Samuel Burch.
She is preceded in death by her father Harry Kilpatrick and her mother Ruth Huff, and by her husband James “Harry” Burch.
The family gives their special thanks to Helen's closest friend Patti Ownby for her loving caretaking and companionship to Helen, and to Mary Payne and Hilda Webb for serving as her caring attendants.
The family will receive friends Monday, September 24 from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. with a memorial service at 6 p.m. at Jim Rush Funeral and Cremation Services, North Ocoee Chapel.
The family requests that in lieu of flowers donations be made to St Jude's Children's Hospital by going to their website at stjude.org.