Harold Bernard Burke

Harold “Harry” B. Burke, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, educator, and servant of his faith and community, passed away surrounded by the love of his family on January 2, 2026. Born in Scranton, Pennsylvania, Harry carried with him throughout his life on values of hard work, generosity, and quiet integrity that defined his early years. Encouraged by a high school teacher, the GI Bill afforded him the opportunity to be the first of his family to attend college, graduating from the University of Scranton in 1956. He furthered his education at The Catholic University of America in Washington DC, first attending law school, then graduating with a Master’s in Counseling. He had a long and illustrious career as a teacher and administrator in public schools, with a focus on special education and counseling.

In 1958, Harry married his trusted partner and true love, Patricia D. Sweeney, in Mt Lebanon, Pennsylvania, beginning a marriage marked by deep devotion, partnership, and faith. Together, they raised four children: Brian Burke (Ann), Eileen Gasteiger (Larry), John Burke (Regina), and Maura Burke. Harry was a proud grandfather to nine grandchildren, Harry Burke (Ashley), Madeline Luevano (Jose), John Burke, Elizabeth Gasteiger (Stephen), William Burke (Mikayla), Nicholas Gasteiger, Faith Burke, Charles Burke, and Samuel Gasteiger, and cherished great-grandfather to three great-grandchildren, Sullivan Burke, Daniel Muldoon, and Mackenzie Burke, each of whom brought him immense joy and pride.

Harry dedicated his professional life to education, serving the Alexandria City Public Schools with distinction first as a teacher and Assistant Director of Northern Virginia Juvenile Detention Center and then as the Director of Special Education. His impact on students and colleagues was so meaningful that an award was established in his name. It is a lasting testament to his commitment, leadership, and the respect he earned throughout his career.

A man of faith and compassion for others, Harry was a longtime parishioner of St. James Catholic Church in Falls Church, where he was active in parish life. He served on the parish council, was an usher as Masses, and a server at the Knights of Columbus. He was especially proud of his 30 years of service as an usher at the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. He lived his faith through action, volunteering with Catholic Charities and quietly serving those in need, establishing the vehicle donation program for the Diocese of Arlington. Harry loved the game of baseball. He enjoyed rooting for the Baltimore Orioles until the Washington Nationals reconvened in DC in 2005.

Harry will be remembered for his kindness, humanity, devotion to family, and unwavering faith. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched, the values he passed down, and the love that continues to surround his family.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. James catholic Church in Falls Church, Virginia, on Saturday, February 7 at 10 a.m. A burial ceremony will follow at St. John the Apostle Catholic Cemetery in Leesburg, Virginia, where Harry will be laid to rest beside his beloved wife, Pat Burke.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Harry’s name to Catholic Charities.