Robert Burke

Robert Keith Burke, 87, of Wheatland, IN, passed away May 6, 2012, at the New Willow Manor. Keith was a farmer, and a member of the Walnut Grove United Methodist Church, the Monroe City Masonic Lodge, and a past member of the American Legion. He enjoyed college basketball, and was an Indiana University fan. During WWII, Keith served in the US Marine Corps from Dec. 28, 1943 to March 4, 1946, and received a Purple Heart. He fought in the battle for Peleliu, which had the highest casualty rate of any battle in the South Pacific. Born Aug. 26, 1924, in Wheatland, IN, he was the son of Ambrose and Mary (VanVleet) Burke. He was preceded by his parents; a sister, Pauline Gilmore; and a brother, L. Van Burke. Surviving is his sister, Juanita Shaner of Monroe City, IN; nieces and nephews, Karla McMullin of Wheatland, IN, Carol Boyer of Monroe City, IN, Vickie Clark of Vincennes, IN, Dr. Samuel Gilmore of Kinston, NC, Sidney Gilmore of Franklin, KY, Pierre Burke of Sylva, NC, Phyllis Glahn of Asheville, NC, and Noel Burke of Rapid City, SD; and several great-nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, at 11:00, at the Gardner-Brockman Funeral Home, 505 Main Street, with Rev. Phyllis Glahn officiating. Friends may call on Tuesday, from 4:00