Muriel Testa

Muriel Lucille (Burkett) Testa

Age 92 of Wilmington, passed away Tuesday, September 26, 2017 at Presence Saint Joseph Medical Center in Joliet.

Born August 8, 1925 in Cornell, Illinois, Muriel Lucille was a daughter of Early Ervin and Mamie Macel (Odle) Mounts Burkett. She was raised in Cornell and during World War II, volunteered with the Canteen effort, which served coffee and sandwiches to 1.5 million soldiers and sailors on the troop trains at the Santa Fe Station in Streator. Muriel went on to graduate from Cornell High School with the Class of 1943, and soon thereafter gained employment with Owens-Illinois in Streator. On November 19, 1960, Muriel married William Francis Testa in Spring Valley, and they soon moved to Wilmington, where they made their home and raised their daughter.

Muriel was a wonderful caregiver to her parents as they aged, and also looked after other family members as their health declined. She enjoyed sewing and quilting, and from 1982 through 1997 she crafted and worked craft shows with her husband Bill and daughter Maria. Cooking was an important part of Muriel’s life, and her renowned red velvet cakes were shared for many birthdays and special occasions.

In her free time Muriel took pleasure in watching the Chicago Cubs, Blackhawks and Bulls, as well as NASCAR. She loved birds, especially Cardinals, and will be fondly remembered as “Aunt Mick” and “Grannie” to many throughout the community.

In recent years, Muriel remained grateful for those who were always available to help her attend appointments and get her out of the house. Her neighbor Shirley was especially supportive, as was her dear 'buddy' and son-in-law Bill, who assisted in her care.

Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law Maria and Bill Haldorson of Wilmington; five step-grandchildren: Lyndsay (Caito Cerisola) Haldorson of Lake Balboa, California, Adam Haldorson of Northville, Michigan, Amanda Haldorson of Wilmington, Laura Haldorson (Wil Sarmienti) of La Crescenta, California and Matt Haldorson of Wilmington; one step-great granddaughter Micaella Cerisola and numerous nieces, nephews, great and great-great nieces and nephews, as well as her faithful and devoted companion Tigger.

Muriel was preceded in death by her parents; husband William on April 29, 1997, and eight siblings: Lewis Mounts, Anna Louise Burkett Bronson, Foster Burkett, Ervin Burkett, Clark Burkett, Helen Burkett Greenman and Gene Burkett.

Cremation rites have been accorded, and a memorial service and celebration of Muriel’s life will be planned at a later date.

Muriel will be laid to rest with her husband Bill in Oakwood Cemetery, Wilmington.

Preferred memorials may be made as gifts in Muriel’s memory to a charity of the donor’s choosing.

Family and friends may sign the guest book, upload photographs or share Muriel’s memorial page on social media by logging onto: www.BaskervilleFuneral.com

Cremation services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Baskerville Funeral Home in Wilmington. ( 815-476-2181 )