Arene Wiemers Burgess
Arene Wiemers Burgess, 90, of Bethalto passed away on Saturday, October 2, 2021 at Lewis Memorial Christian Village. She was born in Chicago, IL to George A. and Meta (Rademacher) Wiemers, and they preceded her in death. She married Charles “Chuck” E. Burgess on May 30, 1959 and he preceded her in death on April 27, 2015.
Also preceding her in death was her brother, George H. Wiemers.
Arene is survived by her sister, Malinda “Linda” Ratliff of Springfield; sister-in-law, Mickie; and ten nieces and nephews: Cathrine, Andrew, Luke, Angela, Philip, Elizabeth, John, Roger, Joseph and Christopher.
She was raised in Menard County and attended the local schools. She graduated from Western Illinois University with Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in English. She started her teaching career in 1956 at East Peoria High School and retired from Edwardsville High School in 1982 due to health issues.
Arene was well known among collectors for her numerous articles about antique furniture, vintage glassware, and quilts that were published in a variety of magazines and special interest publications, along with speaking at various conventions. She authored several books, three of which are published. Her wealth of knowledge is acknowledged by her long-time membership in the Mensa Foundation.
She was an active and long time member of Zion Lutheran Church in Bethalto, IL.
Graveside Service: 10:45 am, Monday, October 11, 2021 at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery with Pastor Kale Hanson officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made to: Zion Lutheran School in Bethalto, IL or to a Charity of Donor’s choice.
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