Delpha L. Burke, a lifelong resident of Auburn, WA, passed away on Sunday, July 11, 2021 at age 95.

Delpha was born Sept 27, 1925 in Scott Township, Fay- ette County, Iowa to her parents Hattie (Hayes) and Walter Munger, the youngest of 6 children. She graduated from Auburn High School in 1943. Shortly after graduation she moved to Washington, D.C., where she worked at the Pentagon.

Delpha married Robert W. Petersen in 1945 in Auburn, WA and raised 3 children. She later spent 10 years working as an executive secretary at Boeing.

In 1965, Delpha married Howard Burke, a local dentist. She spent many years managing Howard’s dental practice and later went on to work as Office Manager for Cascade Orthopedic. Following her time working in the medical field she volunteered at the Pacific Senior Center.

She was also an accomplished knitter and over time became interested in working with knitting machines that eventually led her to open her own business. Other interests included a love for dogs and spending time working outdoors.

Delpha spent 10 years from 1987-1997 working with her son Ron at his Auburn restaurant Chandelle’s. She later worked at Freddie’s Casino where she enjoyed staying busy until she retired.

She continued to live in her home in Auburn until 2017 when she moved into Merrill Gardens Senior Living Apartments.

Delpha was proceeded in death by her husband Howard and her son Robert. She is survived by her son Ron Petersen of Anchorage, AK, daughter Christine Deveraux of Omak, WA, 5 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren.