Serenity Grace Burke

Serenity Grace Burke was born early May 19th, 2025 at 12:59am, at Maple Grove Hospital. She weighed 7lbs 10oz and was 20 inches long. Serenity shared her love with those around her for an amazing eight hours and forty-one minutes, then was gently carried into the arms of Jesus at 9:40am. During her brief but radiant life, Serenity knew only warmth, adoration, and the steadfast love of her parents, Laura and Travis Burke of Coon Rapids, and other beloved family members. At her 20-week anatomy scan, Serenity was diagnosed with anencephaly, a fatal life-limiting condition. Knowing that any life is precious, her parents made the decision to carry her and celebrate her presence, as long as possible. Serenity never let this diagnosis keep her from showing what a beautiful and lively personality she had. In utero, she was extremely active, especially while listening to loud worship music and, of course, whenever mommy was trying to get some sleep. She spent many nights wiggling around in mommy's tummy, while daddy talked to her, telling her just how much she was loved. Serenity's favorite food was Grandma Peters' goulash, and ice from Sonic. She never failed to give her ultrasound techs a challenge, as she often refused to move from the comfortable positions she was in. Though doctors anticipated she might be stillborn or require an early induction, Serenity exceeded every expectation. She was born naturally, alive and strong at 39 weeks and 2 days - a miracle in motion. Serenity was welcomed into this world with an audience of people who love her so much. She was placed immediately on her mommy's chest, while those in the room admired just how beautiful and big she was. One of the nurses then listened to Serenity's heartbeat, and by the look on her face, you would've thought she was listening to one of the most beautiful songs she has ever heard. To celebrate Serenity's birthday, her mommy's dear friend Emily, brought in a cake and everyone sang "Happy Birthday". Once the singing stopped, Serenity immediately lifted her head up off mommy's chest, as if she didn't want it to end. Daddy never left Serenity's side. He cut her umbilical cord, helped clean her up, and then put her in a diaper. Though she was briefly startled, his gentle touch calmed her instantly. It was then that Serenity discovered something precious - Daddy's arms were just as cozy as Mommy's womb. Serenity spent the next several hours receiving the lifetime of love that everyone was prepared to give her. She especially enjoyed the sound of Mommy and Daddy reading, singing, and talking to her. And if the room grew too quiet, she'd let out a soft cry or sweet coo, reminding everyone she was still listening. At 9:40am, Serenity passed peacefully in her mommy's arms, with daddy close beside her. Though everyone knew she was already with Jesus, loved ones were able to spend the next 74 hours with her. Serenity spent that time taking photos with Karen, doing crafts with Nurse Ellie, bathtime with Nurse Sandy, and even went home to spend time in her lovingly prepared nursery. Though initially devastated by Serenity's diagnosis, her family and friends were given a glimpse of Heaven through her life. Her presence brought moments of peace, unexpected joy, and a deep awareness of God's nearness. Serenity's life, though brief, touched hundreds of hearts and sparked miracles of faith, healing, and love. She strengthened relationships, renewed hope, and was bathed in prayer every step of the way. Serenity Grace was a precious gift from Jesus. She was deeply wanted, fiercely loved, and her impact on this world will never fade. Because of her, we will never be the same. We look forward with hope to the day we will be reunited with her - healthy, whole, and together forever. Serenity is survived by her parents, Laura and Travis Burke of Coon Rapids; maternal grandparents, Jenny and Brad Peters of Austin; paternal grandparents, Cindy Burke of Coon Rapids and Chris Burke of Spring Lake Park; aunt and uncle, Krista and Alex Fiebiger of Delano; and aunt, Jamie Johnson of Coon Rapids; and cousins, Grace, Jackson, Hudson and Josie - all of whom eagerly anticipated her arrival and now carry her memory in their hearts. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the many medical professionals who walked beside them on this journey. Special thanks to the perinatal loss care team at Maple Grove Hospital, especially Nurse Jenny Burgers and her incredible team: Ellie, Sandy, Cassie, Tara, Kylea, and Carol. Deep thanks to Dr. Pam Jordi, Dr. David Clay, Dr. Amy Hammers, Nurse Practitioner Elise Pesch, and the staff at Clinic Sofia; and to Dr. Shantel Quinn, Dr. Patricia Heywood, ultrasound technician Fi, and the entire team at Maternal Fetal Medicine - Maple Grove for their compassion and care. Thank you to our loving pastors, Tim and Tricia Sanders, and our dear Spirit of Grace Church family-your steady prayers and comfort have carried us through. We are also grateful to the organizations who provided guidance and support during this journey: Halos of St. Croix, Missing Grace Foundation, Abel Speaks, and anencephaly.info. A very special thank you to Karen Egeberg at His Image Photography for spending countless hours capturing Serenity's life so beautifully and tenderly. The photos you gave us are treasures we will hold forever. Finally, thank you to every person who prayed, supported, and celebrated Serenity's life. She was-and forever will be-deeply loved. A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, July 26th, 2025, at 3:00pm at Spirit of Grace Church in Coon Rapids, Minnesota. All are welcome to attend. Please feel free to wear whatever you'd like - come as you are, in love and remembrance of our little angel Serenity Grace.

Tributes

Serenity Grace Burke

May 19, 2025 - May 19, 2025

Tributes

Serenity Grace Burke

May 19, 2025 - May 19, 2025

We are here for you 24x7

Call us and get help now

(612) 377-2203