Marie Katherine Burns (nee Schurwan), age 79, formerly of O'Fallon, Ill., born May 17, 1928 in St. Louis, passed away January 26, 2008 at Sherbrooke Village in Lemay, Mo. Mrs. Burns and her husband resided in O'Fallon 42 years. She had worked as a clerk at Ralston Purina and attended Bethel Baptist Church in Caseyville. Marie was an avid mystery reader and enjoyed spending time with her friends and family. She had a great sense of humor and knew how to have a good time.

Mrs. Burns was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Irene (nee Lauman) Schurwan, son Jeffrey Burns, and brother Emmett Schurwan.

She is survived by her husband Robert, son Robert (Elaine) Burns of Snellville, Ga., and daughter Susan (Daniel) Falkler of St. Louis, and granddaughters Jennifer and Michele Burns. She was a beloved sister-in-law, aunt, and friend.

The family requests no flowers. To honor Marie's memory, donations are requested to the Baptist Children's Home, 949 County Rd. 1300 N., Carmi, IL 62821 or online at www.bchfs.com.

Visitation: Friends may call from 10:00-11:00 a.m., Tuesday, January 29, 2008 at Bethel Baptist Church, 10 Bethel Meadows Rd. (off Bethel Mine Rd.), Caseyville, Ill.

Funeral Service: 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, January 29, 2008 at Bethel Baptist Church, 10 Bethel Meadows Rd. (off Bethel Mine Rd.), Caseyville, Ill., with Rev. Mike Evans officiating.

Private interment at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis.