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Feb 3rd, 1935 - Feb 27th, 2025Funeral Mass: 12 noon on Tuesday, March 4, at St. Stephen Catholic Church in Flora
Burial: St. Stephen Cemetery
Visitation: 10 a.m. until the time of Mass on Tuesday at the church
Paul F. Birk, age 90, of Flora, Illinois, passed away Thursday morning, February 27, 2025.
He was born February 3, 1935, in Belleville, the son of the late Franz and Catherine (Mueth) Birk. Paul’s brother, Karl J. Birk, also preceded him in passing.
Paul attended St. Mary Grade School and was a 1953 graduate of Cathedral High School. He earned his B.S. and M.S. degrees in Education at Southern Illinois University–Carbondale. He served in the U.S. Army from 1958–60, and went on to begin his professional career at Flora High School, starting his tenure as a teacher and coach before ultimately serving as a longtime guidance counselor until retirement. Paul was a dedicated member of the Flora Elks for over 64 years, contributing his time to countless programs supporting their mission of helping others, especially young people. He was a supportive and faithful parishioner of St. Stephen Catholic Church in Flora.
Paul is survived by four nephews, Steve (Judy) Birk, David (Joyce) Birk, Jeff (Erin) Birk, and Greg (Lauren) Birk; by a niece, Dianne (Patrick) Jurgensmeyer; and also his sister-in-law, Carol Birk Woodrum.
A funeral Mass for Paul F. Birk will begin at 12 noon on Tuesday, March 4, at St. Stephen Catholic Church in Flora. Burial will follow at St. Stephen Cemetery. A visitation will take place at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of Mass. Arrangements are by Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora.
Memorial donations are the preferred form of remembrance and are suggested to the donor’s choice of St. Stephen Catholic Church in Flora, the Flora Elks, or Vitas Community Connection. Any memorial donations may be mailed to Frank & Bright Funeral Home, 500 N. Main St., Flora, Illinois 62839. To share a condolence or memory, please visit: www.frankandbright.com
Jan 4, 1945 - Feb 28, 2025
Feb 3, 1935 - Feb 27, 2025
Jan 14, 1949 - Feb 26, 2025
Jul 15, 1944 - Feb 22, 2025
Jul 10, 1957 - Feb 23, 2025
Our condolences to Paul’s family. Rest in Peace Mr. Burk 🕊️
This is a tough one to write. Mr, Burk was our guidance director in the last 60’s at FTHS. He also coached several junior varsity teams (which is where I first met him. ). What always amazed me was his genuine concern for all of us. Quick to praise, available to listen….his kind is seldom seen…we who knew Paul are truly fortunate. It’s that simple. He was a simple man who led a great life. Adios my friend and mentor.
Condolences, sympathy and prayers to Paul’s family. I enjoyed working with Paul at FTHS as a teacher, Guidance Counselor and Administrator from 1963 to 1968. He was truly a professional during his career as an educator. May his memory always be a blessing to his family and friends and former FTHS students and faculty.
I can only offer my condolences, and prayers to Paul's family, the county has lost a fine man, he will be missed by many, especially the Flora, Elks Lodge. May he rest in peace at the Saint Stephen's Cemetery that has a special place for him, and many of us know that cemetery has been greatly approved by this individual.
Our deepest sympathies are extended to Paul's family. He was a devoted member of St. Stephen's parish and his contributions will long be remembered.
Paul was very generous and kind. An example is the paved road through St. Stephen Cemetery. It is appreciated now and for the future. Sincere sympathy and prayers.
Paul was a great person. Always a smile. As a fellow Elk, Paul dedicated his service daily, serving in many different ways, as an officer, and as an Elk member volunteering to work on countless projects. He will be missed.
Frank & Bright Funeral Home
and Cremation Services
500 North Main Street
Flora, Illinois 62839
Phone : (618) 662-2141
Fax: (618) 662-4600
Email: [email protected]
