We are grateful for the blessed Christian life of Matha A. “Rose” Burger, 87, of Watseka who passed quietly in the arms of Jesus on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 at Citadel of Kankakee. She was born on October 30, 1938 in Long Beach, CA, the daughter of Dale Higgins and Mae Hoover. She married LeRoy Henning on November 23,1956 and he preceded her in passing. She later married Cromer D. Burger in Watseka on April 12, 1969 and he preceded her in passing on August 7, 2008. In addition, she was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Larry Higgins; and one great grandson, Brenden Rose.
She is survived by three daughters, Cindy (Jim) Bursma of Marne, MI, Janet Henning of Oklahoma City, OK, and Susan (Arlo) Williams of Arkadelphia, AR; one son, Tom (Robin) Burger of West Lafayette, IN; one sister, Marla Frye of Piper City; seven grandchildren, several great grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Matha’s lifelong commitment and sacrifice to her church and to her family was evident as well as caring for her aging parents until they passed into glory. Her faith in God was very important to her as she was a longtime member of the First United Methodist Church in Watseka. She showed God’s love always recognizing the need of others and was very generous sharing her excellent meals with everyone. Matha was happiest when she was with her family, friends, pets, and in her garden.
Funeral services will be at 11:00 am on Friday, September 18, 2026 at Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka, with a one-hour prior visitation to the service from 10:00-11:00 at the funeral home. Pastor Ashley Clifton will officiate. Burial will follow at Body Cemetery outside of Woodland.
The family would like to extend their gratitude to all that have cared for Matha during her extended illness with a very special thank you to Marie Garfield and Jason Creek.
She will not be forgotten for her tidal wave of goodness and her love will be with us forever, until we meet again in eternity.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials or donations be made to the Watseka First United Methodist Church Food Pantry honoring Matha’s generous spirit and love of helping others.
Please share a memory of Matha at www.knappfuneralhomes.com.
