Nina J. Bierk

Nina Jean Bierk (née Goff)

June 9, 1937 – July 29, 2026

Nina Jean Bierk, a devoted mother and grandmother, longtime Freeport resident, and respected real estate agent, passed away peacefully on July 29, 2026, in Freeport, IL. She was 89 years old.

Born in Burksville, KY, to Clay F. and Abbie M. Goff (née Baise), Nina later attended Arcola High School in Arcola, IL. She went on to attend Illinois State Normal University, where she majored in Home Economics. During her time there, she was a member of Epsilon Sigma Alpha sorority and participated in fundraisers benefiting her local Heart Association.

Nina began her professional life as a legal secretary for a private attorney in Champaign, IL. In 1960, she married Robert D. Bierk. Together, they built a life and raised their family, living for a time in Quincy, IL, where they built a home in 1971. While in Quincy, Nina volunteered with the Quincy Community Theatre, serving as Treasurer.

The family later moved to Freeport in the early 1970s, where Nina and Robert built the home that would remain a gathering place for their family for decades. Freeport became Nina's home for more than 50 years and the community in which she built both a successful career and many lasting friendships.

Nina enjoyed a successful career in real estate in Freeport and throughout Stephenson County for more than 40 years. Her dedication to her profession and the community she served made her a familiar and respected presence throughout the area.

Beyond her career, Nina generously gave her time to her community. She was involved with local organizations, including the Junior Women's Guild of the YWCA and the Pretzel Fan Club. She was also a devoted parishioner of St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in Freeport for more than 50 years.

Nina enjoyed traveling, reading, golfing, antiquing and dancing. For many years, she also enjoyed playing cards with her beloved bridge group. Above all, she treasured spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren, and the many memories they created together over the years.

Nina is survived by her children, Robert (Katrina), Michael (Tammy), David and Lisa; her sister, Phyllis Link; her brother, Doug (Becky) Goff; her brother-in-law, Jack (Nancy) Bierk; her grandchildren, Abby, Jake, Caitlin, Jessica, Jon, Rachel, Lindsey, Corey, Payton, Lauren and Shane; and many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Clay F. and Abbie M. Goff; her husband, Robert D. Bierk; and her sisters, Nancy J. Bierk (née Goff) and Linda S. Stockton (née Goff).

Nina will be laid to rest beside her husband, Robert D. Bierk, at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, MO, at a later date.

A visitation will be held Thursday, September 10, 2026, from 4 to 7 PM at Burke-Tubbs Funeral Home, 504 N. Walnut Ave., Freeport, IL 61032. A scripture service will begin at 3:30 PM.  

A Memorial Mass will be held Friday, September 11, 2026, at 10:30 AM at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 1400 Kiwanis Drive, Freeport, IL 61032. A luncheon will immediately follow the Mass in the church hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a hospice organization of the donor’s choice.