John \'Johnny\' Burke
Born In: Main-a-Dieu, Nova Scotia, Canada
Passed in: Glace Bay, Nova Scotia, Canada
Passed on: February 28th, 2009
It is with heavy hearts and deep regret that we announce the passing of John David ‘Johnny’ Burke of Main-a-Dieu at Taigh Na Mara Veteran’s Home, Glace Bay Saturday, Feb. 28, 2009, where he has resided since November 2006.
Born in Main-a-Dieu, he was the son of the late John David and Annie (Mountain) Burke.
He was the last surviving member of his immediate family.
Johnny enlisted in the army at a young age and served overseas with the Cape Breton Highlanders during the Second World War.
When he returned home, he began fishing and married his sweetheart the late Barbara Burke of Little Lorraine who passed away in 2007 after 60 years of marriage.
Together they raised seven children, daughters, Marilyn (Gerry) Goyetche, Margie (Arthur) Kennedy, Debbie (Harvey) Sharpe, all of Main-a-Dieu and Penny (Mike) Hemmings of Sydney; sons, Fr. Bill ‘Billy’ Burke, Ottawa, Kenzie (Charlene) Calgary, Joe (Debbie) Louisbourg and special son Howard (Valerie) Oehman of Halifax; 11 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews, who enjoyed his great sense of humour.
Besides his parents and wife, he was predeceased by sisters, Margaret, Mary and Catherine; brothers, Joe and Basil.
Visitation will be held in Immaculate Conception Church, Main-a-Dieu, Wednesday, March 4, 2009, from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Funeral mass will be held from the church on Thursday, March 5, at 2 p.m. with Fr. Bill Burke officiating, assisted by Fr. Patrick O’Neil and Deacon Howard Oehman. Burial will be in the parish cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Immaculate Conception parish or to a charity of choice.
Dad, we will miss you, your wit and your unconditional love. Till we meet again.
Online condolences may be sent through our webpage at www.chantfuneralhome.com.
