Paula Mae Burkemper

Paula Mae Burkemper (nee Kelpe), of O’Fallon, MO, passed away Saturday, August 22, 2026, at the age of 69. Beloved wife of Ted Burkemper; cherished daughter of the late Evelyn M. and Paul Kelpe; devoted mother of Brian (Christina) Burkemper and Brent (Amber) Burkemper; loving grandmother to Brooke Burkemper, Ethan Burkemper, Hudson Burkemper, and Landon Burkemper; dear sister of David Kelpe, Carol (Mike) Neuhaus-Shaw, Ron Kelpe, Nancy (Alex) Flores, and Steve (Sue) Kelpe

Paula and Ted shared 48 wonderful years of marriage, always enjoying time together at their favorite restaurants and occasionally going camping. A simple, easygoing, and devout Christian woman, Paula had a strong faith in God and was always willing to help others in any way she could. She worked for McDonnell Douglas for 13 years and retired from the Postal Service after 30 years. She also enjoyed, reading, crafting, baking delicious desserts, and cheering on her children at their baseball activities when they were younger. Kind, supportive, understanding, compassionate, strong, and independent, Paula had a gentle touch and a soft-spoken voice that made her someone you could talk to about anything. Paula was dearly loved and will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Memorials may be made in Paula's name to 700 club and Susan G. Komen Missouri.