Patrick Burke's Obituary
Patrick Emmett Burke, 82, of Tacoma, Washington, died on October 16, 2020 from complications of Alzheimer’s dementia.
He was born on July 19, 1938 in Rochester, New York to Frederick Andrew Burke and Mary Catherine Quirk. Patrick was the eldest of six children: siblings - Frederick Andrew, James Clement, John Francis, Mary Catherine and Paul Timothy.
While growing up in Rochester, New York, Patrick attended parochial elementary schools, and graduated from West High School in 1956. He found his passion, his love for music, while in elementary school and paid for music lessons with earnings from his paper route. After graduation, he joined the United States Navy. When his 4-year commitment ended, he waited a year, then enlisted in the United States Air Force. He served as a percussionist and vocalist in the Air Force Band for 20+ years, performing for high level officials in Japan, the Philippines, Korea and base celebrations. He retired in October 1982.
He met his wife, Linda Carlene Fong, in Modesto, CA in 1962. They were married on September 7, 1963 at McChord Air Force Base, WA. During their 57 years together, the military assignments took them to Japan, New Jersey, the Philippines, and McChord Air Force Base.
Patrick and Linda were blessed with five children: Patrick Joseph (Lynn) of Arlington, Christopher Brian (Patricia) of Silverdale, Julie Anne Smoot (Rick) of Puyallup, Amy Elizabeth (deceased), Emily Marie of Tacoma. Eight Grandchildren: David Myers (Heather) of Billings, Montana; Patrick Joseph Burke II of Destin, Florida; Brandon Burke (Shelby) of Arlington; Blain Raines (David) of Beaverton, Oregon; Kyle Burke of Silverdale; Jayson Burke of Silverdale; Dalton Smoot of Edgewood; Hailey Ritchey (Dalton) of Bonnie Lake. Two great-grandchildren: Westley James Myers (David and Heather) and Blakey Ann Burke (Brandon and Shelby).
He is preceded in death by daughter Amy (1977), mother Mary (1985), father Frederick (1990), sister Mary (1997) and brother Frederick (2016).
Patrick earned an associates degree, then attended St. Martin’s College graduating with a bachelor’s degree in sociology/psychology. He completed the coursework for a master’s degree.
He loved music and playing the drums. He gigged with several ensembles throughout the Tacoma and Seattle areas. He also loved acting and performed in four different productions at the Tacoma Musical Playhouse.
Patrick immersed himself into his faith community at Our Lady Queen of Heaven Catholic Church. His active participation and presence in the celebration of the Mass included lector, Eucharistic Minister, choir member, cantor, and RCIA sponsor. He was a distinguished member of the Knights of Columbus, serving in many roles, including two terms as Grand Knight.
Beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend; he will be dearly missed by all those who were blessed to know him.
Patrick’s immediate family will have a private service on Monday, November 2, 2020. Next summer we hope to have another celebration of Patrick’s life that will be open to all who wish to attend.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made in Patrick’s name to:
Knights of Columbus Council 6806 or Knights of Columbus Assembly 1845
c/o Knights of Columbus, 1918 184th St Ct E, Spanaway WA 98387-8581.
Our family would like to thank the staff at the Tule Lake Comfort Home who were so dedicated in their care of Patrick, and to the many hospice members who assisted in his care his last two weeks.
Thank you to all our family, friends, neighbors, and Our Lady Queen of Heaven parishioners for your cards, phone calls, e-mails, visits, food, flowers, and prayers. Your gracious gifts confirm the positive influence Patrick had on so many people.
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