"I am so sorry for your loss. Tim was a unique fellow was always true to himself, unselfish and very kind. Even though I have not have the pleasure to spend time with of late I will always cherish the memoirs I have of him. With love, Teri Smithe"
In loving memory of
J. Timothy Burke
September 25, 1929 - November 27, 2017
J. Timothy Burke, 88, of Winona died Monday, November 27, 2017 at his home. Tim was born September 25, 1929 to James Everett and Alice E (Meany) Burke in Winona, MN. He was a graduate of Winona Senior High School; St. Thomas University (degree in Mathematics), and the University of Minnesota (degree in Mortuary Science). He was an avid boxer in college and was the captain of the St. Thomas boxing team. Tim also served as a Major in the US Air Force during the Korean Conflict.
During his college career at St. Thomas, Tim met Jeanne M. Scheets who was attending the College of St. Katherine's just down the road. They were married on June 21, 1952 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church in Winona, MN and together raised 7 children, fondly referred to by Tim as the "Magnificent Seven."
After active duty in the Air Force, Tim moved back to Winona in 1955 to work with his family at Burke Funeral Home and Burke Furniture. He and his brother Pat took over the family businesses and eventually sold the funeral home to the Hoff family in 1996; he sold the furniture business in 2000 to his son and daughter-in-law Sean and Shaune.
Tim was very active in his community, especially St. Mary's Church, Fraternal Order of Eagles, Winona Athletic Club and St. Patrick's Guild. He was a very humble and loving husband and father. He was known for his creativity, carpentry skills, and his love of music - particularly when playing the drums in the Burke Band. Tim was extremely proud of his Irish heritage and created a lasting legacy of love, loyalty and friendship.
Timothy is survived by his children, Kathleen (James) Lanik, T. Sean (Shaune) Burke, Erin Latten, Mary (Andrew) Stasic, Brian (Sandra) Burke, Kevin (Amy) Burke, Michael (Jodie) Burke; 13 grandchildren and soon to be 13 great-grandchildren; sister, Margie DeMarce. He is preceded in death by his wife, Jeanne; granddaughter, Virginia Lynn; brothers, Patrick and Michael.
Visitation will be held from 4-8 p.m. with a 7:30 p.m. prayer service on Friday and 9-10 a.m. Saturday at Hoff Celebration of Life Center, Goodview. The Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, December 2 at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Winona. Memorials preferred to Winona Health and Winona Volunteer Services.
Tributes
"My heart sank to the floor when my search for Winona cousins brought up this page. My memories of you, Uncle Tim, are from long ago but I always remember thinking what a great father you were. Reading these tributes and seeing the multi-generational photos tell the story of a lucky man and his rich rewards. I even found myself in the lower right hand corner of "The Burke Family Circa 1959 or 1960". Rest well sweet Uncle. Thank you for sharing your love of music. Mary Kim Burke"
"OMG, we just found out today, Dec. 4th, from Pat Smith that Tim had passed away. The Michalowski Family sends their deepest sympathy and the Burke family is in your thoughts and prayers. We will never forget the great times we had with Tim. (Jane Gray, Mukwonago WI)"
"Tim has been a great friend to me. I will miss his "Irish Shenanigans" Wishing the entire Burke Clan peace and comfort during this difficult time. Know that Tim & Jean are watching over the entire family with great pride. I miss them both so much. With Love and sorrow in my heart! Pat Smith"