SISTER SYLVIA BIRKE, ASC, 93, of the Adorers of the Blood of Christ, Ruma Center, Ruma, Illinois, passed away at 3:15 pm, Wednesday, February 8, 2012 at the community's center in Ruma, Illinois. She was born to the late Herman and Kathryn (nee Neier) Birke in Beaufort, Missouri on November 5, 1918. She made her first vows as an Adorer of the Blood of Christ on July 2, 1936 and perpetual profession on August 17, 1941. Sister Sylvia served as an elementary school teacher in Stringtown, Illinois (1943-49; 1961-67), Piopolis, Illinois (1949-54), Albers, Illinois (1954-60), and Fort Dodge, Iowa (1967-71; 1980-82); she also worked at the Catholic Children's Home in Alton, Illinois, Clementine Residence in Red Bud, Illinois, and did volunteer work in Zell, Missouri (1990-94). Survivors: 2 Brothers Paul Birke & Leo Birke Many Nieces and Nephews Preceded in death by: Parents, 3 Brothers - Lawrence, William and Herman Birke and 2 Sisters - Rose Baum and Ella Pohlmann Mass of Christian Burial: 11:00 am, Tuesday, February 14, 2012 Ruma Center Chapel, Ruma, Illinois Officiating: Father James Dougherty with reflections by Sister Jan Renz, ASC Visitation: Monday - 8:00 am - 10:00 am Ruma Center Chapel, Ruma, Illinois Wake Service: 10:00 am, Tuesday, February 14, 2012 Ruma Center Chapel, Ruma, Illinois Interment: Convent Cemetery Ruma, Illinois Donations in memory of Sister Sylvia Birke may be sent to the ASC Retirement Fund, 4233 Sulphur Avenue, St. Louis, Missouri 63109 or on-line at www.adorers.org "Support Our Ministries"
