Remembering Sister Georgia Purk

Sister Georgia Purk, of Aurora, IL, died peacefully on Saturday, April 28, at Provena McAuley Manor. A multi-talented woman, she will be remembered for her strength of character, hearty determination, energetic dedication to ministry and for living the motto in her profession ring: "God alone-through Mary." She was a Sister of Mercy for 66 years.

Sister Mary Georgia was born in Chicago on the Feast of the Assumption (Aug. 15, 1927). Her parents, George and Alvine (Strauch) named their only child, Mary Catherine. Her parents wanted her to grow up unspoiled and to be aware of the needs of others. This, no doubt, influenced Mary during her high school years at Mercy High. That is where she first met the Sisters of Mercy, who had educated both of her parents at St. Patrick High School.