Joseph Thomas Burke

"Papa Joe" as his children and grandchildren referred to him lived a full life as a cherished son, husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He spent many years working in various roles at Bridgeport Hydraulic Company before moving to Pennsylvania where he and his partner Ann had an alpaca farm. He then re-aligned his career to a passion for community work serving in non-profit fundraising leadership roles at organizations including the United Way and Boys and Girls Club.

Joe loved music, antiques, hiking, golfing, the many beloved pets that he had throughout the years and most of all being silly with his kids and grandchildren. He was creative, skilled in woodworking and had a keen eye for color and design. Joe was very talented in building things and remodeling spaces into something beautiful. He was known for being kind, funny and a mentor to many.

He is survived by his daughter Rachel and husband John of Shelton, CT, his son Eli and wife Tina of Tucson, AZ, his cherished grandchildren, Isabella, Joey, Anderson, Everett, Nathan, Fran, and Ezra and his seven siblings Kathleen Burke, Patrick Burke, Mary Anne McDonough, Pamela Burke, Christopher Burke, David Burke, Raymond Burke and many nieces and nephews.

Interment will be private.

Joe will be missed tremendously by all who knew and loved him. The family requests that in lieu of flowers please consider donating to a cause that supports cancer research or animal welfare.