Mary Burgess

M. Janet Witte Burgess, peacefully left this world on July 16, 2026, at the age of 96. Janet was born to George and Eva Whitechurch on February 15, 1930, in Shullsburg, Wisconsin. 

She cherished her roots in Shullsburg, but it was in Rockford, Illinois, where she built a life filled with family and devotion. On January 22, 1949, she married Robert F. Witte, and together, for over 52 years, they created a nurturing home for their children. Rockford was their home until Robert's passing in 2001. In 2007, Janet returned to Shullsburg, and married Carl Burgess. Their time together was filled with joy and companionship until Carl's passing in 2013. 

Janet's life was enriched by her faith. She was a dedicated member of St. Edward's Catholic Church in Rockford, Illinois and later, St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Benton, Wisconsin. 

Janet was predeceased by her parents, her beloved husbands Robert and Carl, her son Bradley, grandson Robbie, and brother Charles. Her legacy lives on through her sons Bruce (Donna), Brent (Julie), Brian (Brenda), and Brock (Tracy), along with her five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. 

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dave and Roxanne Leahy for their exceptional kindness and the care they provided Janet. To her many friends and neighbors, thank you for being a part of Janet's life. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, July 25, 2026, at 11:00 A.M. at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Benton, WI. A visitation will be held Saturday, July 25, 2026 from 10:00 A.M. until 10:45 A.M. at the church. Burial will be held in Sunset Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens in Machesney Park, IL. The Erickson Funeral Home in Shullsburg is assisting the family. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.ericksonfuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers the family welcomes donations to the following charity 

Poor Clares Colettine Nuns 

Corpus Christi Monastery 

2111 South Main Street 

Rockford, Illinois 61102