Kimberly Ann (Hermann) Burke

Kimberly Ann (Hermann) Burke, 55, of Durham, NC, passed away peacefully at home on February 21, 2025 surrounded by her loving family. Kim is survived by her adoring husband of 30 years, Tom, and their beloved children, Emily and Matt. She also leaves behind her mother, Sharon; her brothers, Paul and Jason (Melissa); and many extended family members and dear friends.

Kim was born on May 31, 1969, to Sharon (Nielsen) Hermann and Theodore Hermann and grew up in Long Lake, MN. She graduated from Orono High School, where she played volleyball and basketball, and played flute in the marching band. From an early age, Kim knew she was meant to be a nurse. She pursued her passion at the College of St. Benedict (MN), earning her B.S. in Nursing before beginning her career as a Registered Nurse at Mayo Clinic’s St. Mary’s Hospital in Rochester, MN. It was there that she met her soulmate and future husband, Tom.

Together, Kim and Tom created a life filled with love, meaning, and wonderful memories. They moved to San Diego, CA, where Kim worked as a Critical Care RN in the ICUs at Scripps-Mercy Hospital. Kim embraced the outdoors, whether it was snorkeling in La Jolla Cove or hiking and camping under the stars in the Anza-Borrego Desert. Following the birth of their daughter, Emily, the family moved to Durham, NC, where they welcomed their son, Matt, and made their home for the past 27 years.

Kim dedicated over 20 years to patient care and research at Duke University Hospital. Though she was a devoted nurse, her greatest joy in life was being a mother and partner. She loved her family with all her heart, and her happiest moments were spent in her home filled with laughter and dogs.

Kim was a loyal friend, a dedicated nurse, and a fiercely loving wife, mother, daughter, sister, and aunt. Though illness marked her final years, she met every challenge with grace and an unshakable spirit. She embodied resilience, showing those around her the power of love and kindness—a legacy that will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Kim’s time with us was far too short, but the impact she left on our lives is immeasurable. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Kim’s family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the wonderful pre-health student caregivers and compassionate Duke Hospice team for their unwavering support, kindness, and exceptional care during this difficult time.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 8, at 11:00am, at Goodson Chapel in Duke Divinity School. ( https://divinity.duke.edu/ about/directions-parking and https://divinity.duke.edu/ admissions/student-life/ worship )

In lieu of flowers, please consider that memorial gifts be made to the Alzheimer’s Association ( https://www.alz.org/ ), your local SPCA, or a charity of your choice.