Ollie Elizabeth Burnell was born March 31, 1925 to Oral and Beulah (Ransom) Burnell in Creston, Iowa. Ollie went home to be with her Lord and Savior on December 31, 2016, at her daughter’s home in Zephyrhills, Florida at the age of 91. She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Charles Beyer; and brothers; Dale, Lloyd, Oral and William.
Family
She is survived by her daughters Cynthia (Duane) Amundson and Elizabeth Tilley; her sons Paul (Sue) Neveu and Mark (Donna) Kepka; stepson Thomas (Debra) Kepka; sister Phyllis (Ralph) Trentadue; brother Ralph (Iris) Burnell; many grandchildren and a great-granddaughter. Ollie is also survived by life-long best friend Ellen Marie (Unbecannt) Burnell and many nieces, nephews, and friends.
Life
Ollie was a Christian and loved her Savior, Jesus Christ. She had a generous spirit and was quick to help those in need. She was an avid reader and enjoyed puzzles and games.
Memorial Service
A graveside memorial service for Ollie Burnell is scheduled at Florida National Cemetery at 11:30 am on Monday, January 9, 2017, in Bushnell, Florida where Ollie will be buried.
Special Acknowledgements
The family would like to thank the entire staff at Suncoast Hospice in Pinellas County for the outstanding care that was given to Ollie during the final months of her life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Suncoast Hospice Foundation in the memory of Ollie Burnell.
Family and friends are invited to share a memory and sign her guestbook below.
So sorry about your mom’s passing. Our love and prayers are with you.
I wish I could have met her. I pray for continued peace and comfort for you all. I won’t be able to come Monday but would be happy to go someday as that’s where my mom was buried too.
My Dear Friend and Family,
You’re all so much in my thoughts and prayers.
May you find comfort knowing she’s dancing with Jesus with no worries or pain!! What a glorious thought!
Love, Burgins
Two favorite childhood memories: Mom and Aunt phyllis playing piano duets. They were very challenging pieces, and I was so impressed!!
Another favorite memory was Mom and her friend, Eve Kleinedler, baking Christmas cookies together. Hundreds of cookies filled the kitchen, and I thought I was in cookie heaven. It seems my love of cookies began at an early age.
I wish I could have met your Mom.
Thank you for taking her home with your family.
She is dancing in Heaven now & no longer in pain.
I pray for peace & comfort to you & your family.
Love,
Patti
My mother was a beautiful woman both inside and out. We shared a special bond and a twisted sense of humor. I remember her potty training me. She was so sweet and proud of me. My knowledge of music, love of reading and gift for poetry are because of her. For years we spoke on the phone several times a day until she was no longer able to talk. She was my confidant, my best friend and my guide in this life. Whenever something interesting or funny happens I still pick up the phone to call her. One of our last conversations was about how happy we’ll be reunited in the next life. We were laughing and crying at the same time. Neither of us was perfect but we forgave each others imperfections always. She always cared for and watched over me. I still feel her doing that from above. I love you Mama.