Michael Darren Burk

Michael Darren Burk of Maricopa, AZ transitioned from his earthly existence to Heaven on June 9, 2026 at the age of 50 yrs old. Born March 2, 1976 to Charles & Juanita Burk in Bakersfield, CA, Michael was the youngest of 3 and a welcomed surprise!

Michael grew up in Bakersfield sharing his Father’s love of Music, Comics, and Horror Movies. He ventured away from home and moved to Arizona in 2005. Worked as a Checker/Bookkeeper for Safeway in Globe, AZ and Prescott, AZ for many years before moving onto working retail at Walgreens and finally CVS Health. Michael left an impression wherever he went. He had an engaging spirit and infectious smile that he inherited from his Mother. You could always catch him cutting jokes and making people laugh so hard their face would hurt. You can sincerely say Michael never met a stranger.

Michael was a man of many talents. He loved to write and has written a few screenplays that his siblings are in hopes to still share with the world. He was a published Film Critic for Globe-Miami Times. Growing up in a house filled with love and music, Michael loved to sing! You could find him belting or rocking out at your local Karaoke event. Michael's song choices reflected his playful spirit and love of music that brought people together whether it was a George Michael ballad, songs by The Doors or Tears for Fears or a rock anthem he could reimagine on his own.

We can’t go without saying that he was an amazing artist as well. His pencil sketches were few and far between but each piece was amazing!

Michael’s loves of his life were his Son and Daughter. He had dreamed of being a father since he was a teenager. Long before they were born, he knew exactly what he wanted to name his children. Although circumstances prevented him from being an active part of their lives, his love for them never wavered. He carried them in his heart and prayers always.

Children naturally gravitated to Michael. He was definitely the Fun-cle which is why his nieces and nephews loved him so much. His child-like spirit remained throughout his life. Just like his parents he enjoyed attending concerts featuring his favorite artists KISS (he especially loved Ace Frehley), Depeche Mode, Duran Duran, Olivia Rodrigo, Billie Eilish, Madonna and Beyonce’. He loved attending Comicon Conventions, Halloween and Star Wars events.

Last but not least Michael was not a religious person but he definitely was a Believer and loved the Lord. When he first moved to the Globe-Miami area he regularly attended the River of Life Church. Pastor/s Tony & Juanita Blevins always held a special place in his heart.

Michael is survived by his Son Lamont Burk affectionately nicknamed Shadow, Daughter Raven Burk, his Sister Diane (Ed) Lisk, his brother David Burk, his nephews & nieces: Chance, Matt (Aaliyah), and Dustin Lisk, Samantha Lopez, Olivia, Kal’el, and Addison Burk. His best life long friend Simon Burrowes, Uncle and Aunt Simon & Genevieve Perez, God-brother Marc DeLeon, God-sister Valerie Sims, many cousins, great-nephews and nieces, and a wealth of friends. Michael was loved by many.

A Celebration of Life for Michael will be held at a later date, and the family will announce the details once they are finalized.