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Henry W. BURKE

Henry W. BURKE

It is with profound sadness we disclose the passing of Henry W. Burke, occurring on Thursday, 31 January 2019 following complications associated with several strokes. In the care of his loving family and following a long struggle, Henry quietly and peacefully passed into the arms of God. The unexpected death occurred at Uxbridge Cottage Hospital in Uxbridge, Ontario, with his daughters Margaret Ann and Cathy at his side holding his hands. Henry was predeceased by his Father and Mother, Emile and Queenie (Light) Burke and by his devoted wife of 42 years June Lillian (Wilson). He is survived by their eight children: Margaret Ann (Bryan); Michael; Sharon (John); James (Kelly); Lesa; Henry; Cathy; Bradley (Lorrie); 11 Grandchildren and three Great Grandchildren. He is also survived by his special Cousin James Rutherford and his wife Mary Rutherford and by his partner of many years Jean (Hoeg) Joel. Born in River Hebert, Henry was educated in the River Hebert school system. Soon after graduation the family moved to the Toronto area. There he spent a long career as a Superintendent of Parks for the Province of Ontario. During that time, he pursued Continuing Education courses with St. John Ambulance
His "after work" job became Night School Instructor and Trainer for that Company. He continued in these two positions until retirement to River Hebert. Henry was a man of great compassion and gratitude. He was a faithful member of St. Paul's Catholic Church where he was a Minister of the Eucharist, going into homes in the Parish to serve communion and update church activities to those who were ill and shut in. He frequently and gladly drove friends and neighbors to numerous medical appointments in Halifax, New Glasgow, Moncton, Truro or any destination needed. He was never idle, carefully caring for his property, gardening, mowing, repairing. Henry loved fishing and his trips with his sons brought him great pleasure. He attended monthly lunch group meetings of the "River Hebert Boys" in Halifax. An avid hockey fan, he coached teenage hockey for years and eagerly followed his Toronto Maple Leaf games. He ice skated into his mid 80's. Henry bowled weekly with his Amherst 55Club league. He looked forward to weekly card games with his friends at the River Hebert/Joggins Senior card group. Henry and Jean enjoyed many trips touring the Maritime provinces, Spain, Mexico, Florida and the New England states, always looking for a new trail to walk. This wonderful man was best Father, best partner, best friend and will live forever in our hearts. Arrangements have been entrusted to Jones Family Funeral Centre, 70 Church St., Amherst, NS (902-667-8777). To allow family to attend the funeral and burial, Funeral Mass will be held at St. Paul's Roman Catholic Church, River Hebert on Saturday, June 15, 2019 at 11 am, Rev. Father Phil Thibodeau officiating. After which, Henry will be laid to rest beside his wife June Lillian (nee Wilson), in the St. Denis Cemetery, Minudie, NS. Donations in memory of Henry may be made to the St. Paul's Roman Catholic Church Parish, or a charity of your choice. Sharing of memories and condolences may be sent to the family by visiting Henry's online memorial at www.furlongjones.ca or through the Furlong Jones Funeral Home Facebook Page.

 

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