Mirella Degano Burke

Mirella Degano Burke 

1937-2023 

Mirella Degano Burke, 86, of Los Lunas, died Monday, Nov. 27, 2023, at the BeeHive Bosque Farms Assisted Living facility after a brief illness.  

She was born Jan. 22, 1937, in Udine, Italy. Mirella’s life was an epitome of one who was devoted to raising and caring for family. She provided life guidance to her children, grandchildren and other extended family members.  

Although Mirella arrived to the United States as an Italian immigrant, she taught herself English and quickly assimilated into her new culture. Her upbringing, growing up in poverty and World War II, gave her skills for this transition and awareness of other people’s challenges.  

Having married an Irish immigrant who was a career military member, Mirella worked different jobs in the service sector until asked to provide childcare full-time for family. Her life served as an example as she provided loving concern and advice, stressing the positive such as, “Just do your best,” “Be positive and things will work out.”  

Mirella was never judgmental or complaining, and was always grateful for her current life situation. Each new acquaintance always commented on her warmth and kindness. Mirella exhibited a type of human “grace” and understanding even with the passing of a grandson and in the time before death. Mirella believed in God, her faith, and prayed each night for her family. 

She is survived by her daughter, Eileen Beaulieu, and son-in-law, Raymond Schaedler, of Los Lunas; and her grandsons, Dylan Beaulieu and the late Ryan Beaulieu; her son, William Burke and his wife, Carol Burke, of Schertz, Texas; her son, David Burke and his loving partner, Deborah Backus, of Los Lunas; sister, Dorina Moltrasco, of Varigotti, Italy, and her sons, Marco and Luca; sister, Renata Mania, of Monfalcone, Italy, and her children, Patrizia and Gianfranco, and their respective spouses and children. 

Mirella also had an extended family through her former husband, Michael Burke and his wife, Rosalie Burke, of Las Vegas, Nev. She cared deeply for their children, Lynne Burke, of Henderson, Nev., and Raymond Burke of Lompoc, Calif. 

The family wishes to extend heartfelt appreciation to Mirella’s many friends who she has known through the years and the wonderful staff and residence of the BeeHive Bosque Farms Assisted Living facility who became a second family to her. The nursing staff at Ambercare, who exhibited compassion and care during her final days are also to be recognized. 

A Rosary will recited at 9:30 a.m., Saturday, Dec. 9, at San Clemente Parish in Los Lunas, with a Funeral Mass to follow at 10 a.m. A life celebration will be held following the service.  

In lieu of flowers please consider donations to Saint Jude’s Children Research Hospital in Mirella Burke’s memory. 

Arrangements are being handled by the caring professionals at the Noblin Funeral Service, Los Lunas, 2211-D Main St., SE Los Lunas, NM, 87031, 505-866-9992.