Burke was born on July 23, 1926 on Cayman Brac and passed away at his home in Tampa on February 5, 2021. He was predeceased by his parents, Albert Sr. and Maggie Ryan, two brothers, Frank and Fred. He leaves to mourn his wife of 65 years Naomi, daughters Maureen and Margaret and their spouses, sister Christine Foster, as well as many other family and friends.
He left Cayman Brac at the age of 17 to join the Merchant Marines. When his seafaring days were over, he came to Tampa and opened an auto repair shop. In addition to this, he joined his best friend, Lou Ford, in real estate investment. Over the years he and several other prominent Caymanian gentlemen started Aero Sun/Red Carpet Airlines along with Cayman Islands Shipping Co. which served the Cayman Islands. For the past 40 years he was the owner and operator of Ryan’s Distributing Co.
He loved animals and enjoyed the company of many dogs and cats over the course of his life. He was a wonderful father and a devoted husband.
He lived the American dream but never forgot his roots. He was very generous and kind, always ready to lend a helping hand.
He loved to fish and wondered recently if there was fishing in heaven. “Tight lines” Daddy, we will carry you in our hearts always.
In lieu of flowers, a contribution to the Humane Society of Tampa Bay may be made in Burke’s memory.
