In Memory: John M. Burke, Age 84
John M. Burke, a long-time resident of Des Plaines, died peacefully at home on July 9, 2024 at the age of 84. John was born on March 27, 1940 in New York City to Ignatius and Elizabeth Burke. He grew up in Rye, NY and attended Archbishop Stepinac High School and Iona College.
John was a Special Agent with Army Intelligence and went on to a career in the security and investigations business. He was chairman of the Chicago Chapter of the American Society for Industrial Security and a member of the Special Agents Association. He was our Magnum P.I. John lived a life of service to his church and community. At St. Stephen Protomartyr Church, he served on the parish council, was chairman of the lectors and representative to the Archdiocesan Pastoral Council. John was a member of the Des Plaines Library Board, serving as president during the planning and construction of the new library. He served as president of the Des Plaines History Center and the Kiwanis Club of Des Plaines. He was active with Crimestoppers, PADS and Meals on Wheels. John enjoyed his 6 years at Forest School where he was a reading tutor and mentor.
John loved his family deeply, and actively supported his daughters’ activities and educations. When his girls were young, they participated in the Indian Princess Program, enjoying many fun campouts. He especially loved the role of grandfather, taking every opportunity to be involved in his granddaughter Vivian’s life. Some of his favorite times were at family reunions in the Catskills where he would share the genealogy of the Burke family with the younger generation. John loved geography and history and archaeology and was nearly unbeatable at Trivial Pursuit. The family is very grateful to his Home Care Angel caregivers, Bill and Arle, and to his Rainbow Hospice nurse Kay for the loving assistance and support they provided during his time in home hospice.
John was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Joan (John) Turner and his niece Shannon Turner. He is survived by Marie, his wife of 55 years; his daughters, Katherine and Michelle; his granddaughter Vivian; his sister Regina (John) Vassak; brother Kevin (Elise); his cousin Vivian
“Pat” Burke; 5 nephews and dozens of cherished cousins in Ireland and around the world.
A memorial visitation will be held on Friday, September 13, 2024 from 4:00 to 8:00 pm at G.L. Hills Funeral Home, 745 Graceland Ave., Des Plaines. A mass and celebration of his life will be held Saturday, September 14, 2024 at 10:00 am at St. Stephen Church, 1280 Prospect Ave., Des Plaines. A private burial service will be held at Fort Sheridan National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to the Des Plaines History Center, 781 Pearson St., Des Plaines, IL 60016, Des Plaines Kiwanis Club, PO Box 153, Des Plaines, IL 60016, or a charity of your choice.
