Carolyn Burke

Carolyn Guss Burke, age 90, passed away at home on August 16, 2024, surrounded by family. She bravely lived with multiple myeloma for over 10 years. She was the daughter of Edwin C. and Anna M. (Charney) Guss and the loving wife of Thomas J. Burke for 67 years. Carolyn was a strong, caring, and loyal person who valued family and friends. Carolyn was born in 1934 at St. Luke's Hospital in the Fountain Hill neighborhood of Bethlehem, PA. Carolyn graduated from Fountain Hill High School in 1952 where she played varsity basketball. She graduated from the St. Luke's School of Nursing in 1955. Carolyn was employed as a registered nurse at St. Luke's Hospital and supervisor at Gracedale Nursing Home for many years. She was a dedicated wife, mother and tireless caregiver for her family, especially for her daughter Kathy. Carolyn was a strong and effective advocate for children with special needs.

Carolyn was an avid bargain shopper and took pride in decorating her house full of collectibles, especially for the holiday season. She enjoyed playing cards and vacationing at the beach, casinos, and Broadway shows.

Carolyn had a special passion for sports, both as an athlete and a fan. She played decades of golf including many rounds with her favorite partner, husband Tom. She also traveled to attend several major championships including the U.S. Open and the British Open. At home, Carolyn was an intense fan (and vocal critic) of her favorite teams such as the New York Yankees and the UConn women's basketball.

Carolyn was predeceased by her parents, sister Jean Guss Pyne and brothers-in-law Ken Pyne and John T. Burke. She is survived by her three daughters, Jane Cassidy (Robert), Mary Conner (Timothy) and Kathy Burke. She is survived by grandchildren Brian Cassidy (Amanda), Kate Cassidy (Don Loughney), Sean Cassidy (Heather Hunter-Nickels), Erin Conner, great-granddaughters Maya, Aspen, Brea, June, sister-in-law, Patricia Burke, and several nieces and nephews.

Services: Friends and family are invited to her calling hour from 10-11am Tuesday, August 20, 2024 at the Connell Funeral Home, Inc., 245 East Broad Street, Bethlehem followed by a service at 11am. The entombment will conclude services at the Bethlehem Memorial Park Cemetery. Online condolences may be offered at www.connellfuneral.com.

Carolyn lived a long and purposeful life, and left a positive impact on her family and friends. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Step by Step Intermediate Care Facility, where daughter Kathy is lovingly cared for, Step by Step ICF, 471 Bushkill Center Drive, Nazareth, PA 18064.