Chris P. Buerk

Chris P. Buerk, 94 of 415 Church Street, St. Marys, passed away Tuesday, July 6, 2021, at the Elk Haven Nursing Home, after a lengthy illness.

He was born June 8, 1927, in St. Marys, son of the late Andrew C. and Mary B. Eckert Buerk. Chris was a lifelong resident of the area and was a graduate of St. Marys High School. He was a veteran of the United States Navy, having served during World War II, and also served in the Navy Reserve.

He was employed as a mechanic for Woelfel Motor Service, Erich Motors, and he managed Erich’s Body Shop, later purchasing the business changing the name to St. Marys Auto Body, which is presently owned by Bob and Sandy Buerk. In 1966, he was employed by Erie Insurance Exchange as an auto adjuster, claims supervisor, training new adjusters, and handling litigation until 1996.

On February 9, 1952, in Portageville, NY, Chris married Shirley Yeager, his loving wife of 69 years, who survives.

Chris is exceptionally proud of his three children: Mary (Terry) Surra of Kersey; Michael (Robin) Buerk of Treasure Lake; and Andrew (Elaine) Buerk of Huntington Beach, CA; and his grandchildren: Joseph (Carly) Surra of Cranberry Township; Anthony Surra of Kersey; Christa (Bret) Hosterman of State College; Nicole Buerk and Brittey Buerk of Huntington Beach, CA; and Jacob Buerk and Tyler Buerk of Treasure Lake; and his great-grandchildren: Andrew, Mila, and Giovanni of Cranberry Township; and Gavin Hosterman of State College.

In addition to his parents, Chris was preceded in death by his brothers: Andrew, Edward, Carl, Romie, and Philip Buerk; as well as his sisters: Mary (Paul) Gier, Dorothy (Jerry) Reed, and Rose (Mack) Newell. He was the last member of his immediate family.

There will be no visitation.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated in the St. Mary’s Church on Friday, July 9, 2021, at 10:00 AM, with the Rev. Peter Augustine Pierjok, OSB, Pastor, officiating. Burial will follow in the St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery.

Memorials, if desired, may be made to a favorite charity.

The Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.