John P. Burke, a lifelong resident of Charlestown, entered into eternal life on Wednesday, April 18, 2018 at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. He was 85 years of age.
John was born in Boston on October 9, 1932, a son of the late James G. Burke and Winifred A. (Quirke) Burke. He grew up in Charlestown where he was educated in the Boston Public School system and graduated from Charlestown High School in 1950. John enlisted into the United States Navy on June 11, 1951 and served his country with honor and courage during the Korean Conflict and was awarded the National Defense Medal and Good Conduct Ribbon. He was honorably discharged on May 6, 1955 with the rank of Airman. John worked as a Letter Carrier for the United States Postal Service in the Allston-Brighton area his entire career and retired following 31 years of dedicated service. John enjoyed his many trips to Ireland, sometimes twice a year to visit with his extended family. He enjoyed playing and watching golf and was an avid Boston sports fan especially watching the Boston Red Sox. John enjoyed and looked forward to his Sunday morning breakfasts with his dear friend the Gov. John's passion in his life was his family and in later years took great pride with the accomplishments that each one of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren have achieved.
John is the beloved husband of the late Theresa M. (Goggin) Burke. He is the devoted father of John Burke and his wife Nancy of Reading, Karen Collier and her husband Bob of Charlestown, Richard Burke and his wife Erin of South Boston, Robert Burke and his wife Dee Dee of Winchester, Thomas Burke of Hyde Park and Joseph Burke of Boston. He is the loving Grampa to 19 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. He is the beloved brother of Winifred Doherty and her husband Fran, Christine Lyons and the late William Burke, Joseph Burke, Michael Burke, Edward Burke, Mary Powers, Francis Burke and Helen Hirl. He is also survived by his many loving nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend John's Funeral on Saturday, April 21, 2018 at 9 A.M. from The Carr Funeral Home, 220 Bunker Hill St. Charlestown followed by his Funeral Mass in St. Francis De Sales Church, 313 Bunker Hill St. Charlestown at 10 A.M. His burial will be at Woodlawn Cemetery in Everett. His visiting hours will be on Friday, April 20, 2018 from 4 to 8 P.M. in the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, kindly make a memorial donation in John's name to The Charlestown Boys & Girls Club, 15 Green St. Charlestown, Mass. 02129.