Michele Lea Cerny

Michele Lea (Burge) Cerny, 56, died on May 16, 2026 at her home.

She was born June 23, 1969 in Philipsburg, the daughter of Gene Linda (Croyle) Burge.

Michele was an outstanding athlete and played softball and volleyball for Philipsburg High School where she still holds records. She also won a BMX world championship in 1979.

She was married to Filip Cerny, a local technician, and they were together for 37 wonderful years. She is survived by two brothers, Ralph 'Brian' Burge and his wife, Mim, and Doug Burge and Jill, and her BFF, Bernice Cutler aka "W".

Michele was employed for most of her working career at State of the Art in State College, PA as a laser operator manufacturing thin film chip resistors. She retired at 54, and spent her time relaxing in the sunshine of her backyard. She loved the beach, and most of all, she loved her beagles, boxers, and shi-tzus.

She was generous, kind, and always put the needs of others ahead of her. After a long struggle with health issues, she died at home surrounded by friends and family.

Please send donations in her memory to Nittany Beagle Rescue.

My Bubi went to heaven. I will be right behind you.