Obituary of Alfonzo Andre Burks

Alfonzo Andre Burks was born on February 9, 1970 in Detroit, Michigan.   He was the son of James McClane and Louise (Burks) Townsel.   Alfonzo graduated with the class of 1988 from Western High School.   Following graduation, he joined the United States Army enlisting on August 2, 1988. He proudly served his country honorably until his discharge on April 1, 1991 with the rank of E3. 

Alfonzo always looked after the needs of his family. He enjoyed spending time with his children and loved to hang out with his boys. With a great sense of humor; and a natural ability as a comedian; he was to say the least quite funny. He was blessed to have spent more than twenty years with his significant other, Leslie Wilkes.

Alfonzo supported his family in several capacities most recently spending five years as a crane operator for Spartan Steel. He enjoyed a simple life and had really appreciated quiet solitude after his diagnosed illness. Alfonzo loved to watch movies, and cherished the time spent with family and friends.

Alfonzo Andre Burks, age 49 of Monroe, passed away at 5:25pm on Saturday, February 16, 2019 at the VA Medical Center in Ann Arbor.

To cherish his memory, Alfonzo leaves his significant other: Leslie Wilkes of Monroe; his five children: Alfonzo Burks II, Benjamin Burks, Malaysia Maclin, Gabrielle Burks and Isaiah Burks. His brother Ricky Townsel, grandson Dameon William Jr., Sister/Cousin Patrice Burks, Aunt Robbie Burks, Uncle Lee A. Burks Jr. and many more family and friends.

Alfonzo is preceded in death by his mother Louise Burks Townsel, grandparents Lee A. Burks Sr. and Henrietta Burks, sister Linda Jackson and his uncles Charles Burks Sr., Alex Burks Sr., Lawrence Burks, Larry Burks, Willie J. Burks, Sam Burks, Willie B. Burks, and Johnny Burks.

Friends may gather on Tuesday, February 26, 2019 from 3:00pm until 5:00pm at Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe, 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185.   At 5:00pm members of Monroe Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1138 will present military honors.   A Celebration of His Life will immediately follow the veterans service with Pastor Steve Hobbins officiating.

In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to the family to assist with funeral arrangements.   Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, send a floral arrangement, or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.