Myrtle Belle Buerk , 83, of Centralia passed away Friday, September 16, 2022, at SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital in Centralia. She was born on November 23, 1938, the daughter of Arthur and Artie (Wood) George in Centralia.

Survivors include her beloved son Gregory "Greg" Buerk and wife RaDonna; grandson Elijah Buerk; brothers Forrest George and wife Julie, David George and Brenda, Randy George and Marsha, and Allan George and wife Gladys; sisters Linda Mitchell and husband Randy, Loretta Ganstine, and Kathy Casey and husband Robert; a host of nieces and nephews; a treasured friend who gave Myrtle God's precious blessing; and caregivers John Starr and Bobbie Farris.

Myrtle was preceded in death by her parents; sister Ruth Shirey; brother Arthur "Dean" George; special friend Angie Moulder; dogs Albert and Callie.

Myrtle had a huge, compassionate heart which was a blessing to those she cared for while working as a LPN at Murray Center and St. Mary's Hospital both in Centralia until she was disabled by a work related injury. She was a faithful member of Calumet Street Christian Church where she enjoyed the friendships of her church family, which she loved. She spent time daily, reading her 3 bible devotionals and enjoying gospel music on CD and DVD. Myrtle was a true St. Louis Cardinals fan and liked to cheer them on to a win while watching them on the television. Myrtle was active in her community, serving as a member of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary in Centralia.

A celebration of life service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, September 22, 2022, at the Irvin Macz Funeral Home in Centralia with Pastor Anthony Sweeney and John Willis officiating. Interment will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park in rural Sandoval. Friends and relatives are welcome to a visitation time from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 21, 2022, and one hour prior to the service on Thursday at the funeral home in Centralia. Memorials may be made in lieu of flowers to Calumet Street Christian Church or her grandson Elijah Buerk for his college education. Online condolences and memories of Myrtle may be shared with the family by visiting www.maczfuneralhomes.com and/or on the funeral home's Facebook page.