Lois A. Burch

Lois Burch, age 91 of Appleton, passed away at Brookdale Senior Living in Appleton on Sunday evening, April 29, 2018. Lois was born in Appleton on February 21, 1927, daughter of the late Julius and Florence (Blahnik) Balza. On June 8, 1946, she married Lawrence Burch in Springfield, Missouri, and together spent fifty-eight beautiful years together, surrounded by their children and grandchildren.

Lois was a devoted Catholic who also served as a Girl Scout leader at St. Mary’s Church. She enjoyed many hobbies, including golf, playing bridge, knitting, and socializing with friends and neighbors. Prior to their return to Appleton, Lois lived in Nashville, Tennessee and Pine Bluff, Arkansas. She loved sports of all kinds, but special to her were her five grand-dogs, her grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Lois is survived by six children: Chris (Kari) Burch of West Bend, Steve (Jill) Burch of Colorado, Robert (Robin) Burch of Eau Claire, Lynn (Jess Coburn) Burch of Germany, Jane Burch of Appleton, and Barbie Burch of Oklahoma. There are also seven grandchildren: Scott (Jen) Burch, Andrea Burch, Greg (Laura) Burch, Shelly (John) Weiland, Jeff Burch, Ryan (Katie Robinson) Burch, and Bridgett (Nate) Dailey. Lois also leaves behind ten great-grandchildren, and three sisters: Mary LeFevre of Appleton, Joan Schmitt of New London, and Helen (Chris) Schaefer of Illinois. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Lawrence in 2004, brothers Bob (Marge) Balza, Tom Balza, and Bill Balza; a sister Edith (Al) Schreiner, and brothers-in-law Tom Schmitt and Ron LeFevre.

The funeral liturgy for Lois will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, May 4, 2018 at ST. MARY CATHOLIC CHURCH, 312 S. State Street in Appleton, with Fr. Bill Swichtenberg officiating. Interment will take place in the parish cemetery. Family and friends are invited to gather at the church on Friday morning from 9:00 AM until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested that memorials be directed to the St. Joseph Food Program.

The family would like to offer their sincere thanks to the staff at Brookdale for creating such a warm environment for Lois, and to the staff for their love and care. Special thanks to all of the residents at Brookdale - mom treasured each of you - thank you for treasuring her. Finally, thanks to Compassus Hospice Staff for all of the extra comfort you provided to Lois and to us. We will never forget your kindness.