William Henry Burke, 83, of Marion, Ohio, passed into Heaven on Saturday, October 23, 2010.
He was born June 23, 1927 in Cardington, Ohio to the late James and Lillie (Kramer) Burke.
He was married on June 20, 1952 to Betty Jane (Vanderhoff) Burke. He lost his beloved Betty in October 2003, but is by her side now.
"Bill" was an avid bike rider in his later years, sometimes riding 20 or more miles a day until the time of his sickness. He loved to visit the casinos, traveling to Wheeling by himself sometimes to just relax and try for the big payoff. He was a diehard Buckeye fan never missing a game on the TV. He was well liked by everyone that met him because of his loving and easy going personality.
He retired from the former GTE in 1990, before that he worked for the Borden Dairy Company for many years.
He is survived by son Robert Wilson (Cheryl) Burke of Harrison, VA, and their children Angela and Mathew, daughter, Linda Marie (Arthur) Dixon of Marion, and their children Donna and Sharon, a sister, Elizabeth Kinzer of Lady Lake,FL. And a very special sister-in-law, Marilyn Vanderhoff of Marion. He is also survived by eight great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his brothers Walter and James and sister Dorothy.
Bill was a member of Emanuel Lutheran Church where he served as an Usher. He was also a member of Pleasant Senior Center, where he enjoyed playing cards and mixing with other people his age. Bill was also a proud Naval veteran of WWII where he served on the USS Shangri-La.
Family will receive friends from 4:00 PM till 8:00 PM Tuesday, October 26, 2010 at Gunder/Hall & Folk Funeral Directors. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Wednesday, October 27, 2010 at Emanuel Lutheran Church with Pastor Mark Schuring officiating. Burial will follow in Marion Cemetery with Military Honors conducted by the Marion County United Veterans Council.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.gunderhallandfolk.com.
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