Helen Arlene Burke-McClimon age 91 of Clinton, passed away Thursday Feb. 24, 2022 at Bickford Cottage Assisted Living, Clinton. According to her wishes, cremation rites have been accorded. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Millennium in Goose Lake, IA on April 2nd from 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM. Burial will be held at St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Villa Nova, IA. The Pape Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences may be left at www.papefh.com
Arlene was born on Aug. 26, 1930 in rural Clinton County, Iowa, the daughter of Tommy and Albena (Mc Conohy) Burke. She graduated from Mt. St. Clair Academy in Clinton. She married William McClimon on Jan. 6, 1951 in Villa Nova, IA. Arlene was a farm wife, worked as a secretary for Iowa Mutual Insurance, and owned her own residential housekeeping business until 2016, when she retired. She was an avid traveler, traveling thru all 50 states and 17 countries. She was very much involved with her book studies and her love for journaling. Arlene loved spending time with her brothers, sister, their families and all her grandkids.
Arlene is survived by her six sons, Bill (Nancy) McClimon of Charlotte, IA, Pat (Valerie) McClimon of Loogootee, IL, Tony (Annie) McClimon of Wyckoff, MN, Mark McClimon (Julie) of Bend, OR, Randy (Lora) McClimon of West Branch, IA, and Thad (Laurie) McClimon of Fountain, MN; her three daughters, Jean McClimon of Gladstone, MO, Jobena McClimon of Marble Falls, TX, and Mary McClimon of Brownsville, MN; daughters, Kelly and MaRea and a son, Walter who have gone to heaven; 24 grandchildren, 52 great grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren;
two brothers, Uncle Al Burke of Davenport, IA and Uncle Ed Burke of Glen Mills, PA; and several nieces & nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Tommy and Albena, two brothers, Uncle Gene Burke and Uncle Bob Burke, her sister, Aunt Agnes Guinan; and two grandsons, Ryan McClimon and Levi Quandahl.
My condolences to the family. Arlene was my neighbor across the street from me in DeWitt. She was always looking out for us. Enjoyed our visits when she would cross the street while taking a walk. She is dearly missed. May she Rest In Peace.
The moment we met Helen she found a place in our hearts. Her love was contagious. What a precious gift she was to us. We will hold her in our heart until we can hug her again in heaven. Gary and I share in your sadness.
Beautiful memories of the McClimon Family coming to the
Burke reunion at Petersville July 4th with a car full of kids (Angels)!!
Thank you JESUS & Mother Mary for Arlene & her beautiful family✝️???
I had the privilege of calling Arlene a friend, for which I am thankful.
Aunt Arlene was so easy to conversation with, heart to heart. Her wisdom, gleaned over many years and her own personal struggles, was a gift she willingly shared. I’ve gained great insight for my own life from her. I miss her already. Love and light to her children, siblings and extended family.
Arlene’s smile and laugh will remain in my heart as long as I live. A kind and sweet mom of my cousins who use to come out to the farm and play; or we went to their home. Always smiling. Thank you for your joy and gentleness.
Always loved a laugh with Aunt Arlene. She made me feel welcome and sincerely shared herself and feelings with others. Her strength thru numerous personal tragedies was remarkable. You are a blessed family to have had her as your mother and friend.
Condolences and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with family friends and loved ones