Cleveland Burkes

​Cleveland "Bo" Burkes, age 90 of Lockport, IL gained his angel wings on November 3, 2020; the birthday of his beloved late wife, Arlinda Burkes.

Cleveland entered this world January 14, 1930 in Tribbett, MS.

Legacy - A kind and caring man, Cleveland dedicated his life to his family, friends and community.  He was a Patriotic man that proudly served our country in the United States Army and committed his working career to Caterpillar Incorporation for 30+ years.  At Caterpillar he was a Welder and retired as a Quality Inspector.  When Cleveland wasn't working, he was actively serving the Lockport and Joliet communities in various roles such as a Boy Scout Leader, School Board Representative, Founding Memorial of Fairmont Developers and member of the Joliet Chapter of Operation PUSH.  He also assisted with food distribution at A.F. Hill Community Center's Food Pantry.  For 50+ years the garden at 601 Oak Avenue fed various communities.  Cleveland was a man with a vision that left an indelible imprint.

Faith - Cleveland loved and trusted the Lord with all his heart and accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior.  As a young adult, he joined Second Baptist Church and served as an Usher and Deacon.  Cleveland and his family joined Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church in 1970 under the leadership of the late Rev. J.W. Walton and later under the leadership of Pastor Richard D. House.  At Shiloh, he faithfully served until his health declined as a Deacon, Sunday School Teacher and Vacation Bible School Teacher; he was also a part of the Mens Ministry, as well as, Prison/Outreach Ministry.

Family - Cleveland was united in Holy Matrimony to Arlinda Dotson on May 29, 1950; from this union they had five children.

Cleveland was preceded in death by his mother, Lucy Williams and beloved wife, Arlinda Burkes.

He leaves to cherish his memory; three sons, Darrell (Brenda) Burkes of Lockport, IL, Rodney Burkes of Shorewood, IL and Farrell (Ardella) Burkes of Bolingbrook, IL; two daughters, Arlisa (Dean Chapman) Burkes of Joliet, IL and Tiscia Fitzgerald of San Antonio, TX; devoted brother-in-law, Herbert Curry of Joliet, IL; grandchildren, Michael, Shakira, Carla, Brandon, Rodney, Terrell, Brittany, Raytrell, Raven, Tareya, Kaliah, Jada, Arkayla and Arianna; a host of great grandchildren, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

Matthew 6:33 - "But Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God, and His Righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you"

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