‘DWTS’ Pro Cheryl Burke Mourns the Death of Her Father in Emotional Tribute After Social Media Hiatus

Our hearts are breaking for Cheryl Burke. The Dancing With the Stars pro dancer took to Instagram on Monday, March 19, to share that her father has sadly died.

She posted a throwback photo of the two via the social media platform with the caption, "Dad, if I had one more chance to have you here with me today, I would do things differently. Every day I would tell you how much I love you. I miss you so much already. Rest In Peace, Stephen Louis Burke, April 13, 1950 – March 9, 2018."

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Fans immediately took to the comments to send their condolences. "This is a beautiful picture, Cheryl. I am so very sorry for your loss. One thing for sure, love: No one can EVER take your memories away from your dad. Sending positive energy of prayers your way." Another commented, "Deepest condolences on the loss of your dad. May he rest in peace and your memories rest in your heart forever." Her fellow DWTS pro, Kym Johnson, even reached out to Cheryl. "Sending you all my love Sugar Plum," she wrote.

His passing comes just a few days after Cheryl revealed she'd be taking a break from social media for a while to deal with "personal things." She wrote on Tuesday, March 13, "I’m dealing with some personal things right now and need to take a break from social media. Thanks for understanding and remember to tell people who are important to you just how much you love them each and everyday."

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At the time, Cheryl didn't give any further details about the situation she referred to in the post, but we now know she was, unfortunately, coping with the loss of a parent. Our thoughts are with her and her family during this difficult time — and we hope to still see her on the upcoming all-athlete DWTS season, which premieres on Monday, April 30.