Pete Burch

MATTHEWS, Mo. -- Oather G. "Pete" Burch, 87, of Matthews died Thursday, Feb. 10, 2005, at Missouri Delta Medical Center in Sikeston.

He was born June 24, 1917, at Matthews, son of H.T. "Dick" and Willie Morgan Burch. He and Donnie DeJournett were married July 3, 1944, in Piggott, Ark.

Burch was a motor grader operator 40 years with New Madrid County Highway Department, retiring in 1982. He was also a motor grader operator with Gray Ridge Special Road District for 1984 to 2004. He had also worked for Burch Farms and was city marshal 17 years at Matthews.

Survivors include his wife; four sons, Bloyce and Jim Burch of Matthews, Curtis Burch of Farrenberg, Mo., Dennis Burch of Matthews; four daughters, Detsel Belvin and Robin Hough of Sikeston, Shelia Polk and Karen Magee of Matthews; a brother, Harold Burch of Sikeston; 19 grandchildren; and 18 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by a daughter, eight brothers, and four sisters.

Friends may call at Nunnelee Funeral Chapel from 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday.

The funeral will be at 2 p.m. Monday at the chapel. Grandsons Chris and Jeff Polk will officiate, assisted by the Rev. Rodney Dunlap. Burial will be in Matthews Cemetery.