RIP to a truly awesome person and great teacher. Sad to know he is no longer with us.

Mr. Burke was a true human being in the most literal sense of the word.  He showed me compassion and caring, while teaching me geometry and ethics at the same time.  I was not a good student but,  Mr.  Burke taught me, and I learned how to learn from him.  My life was made better by knowing him, and I think of him and the lessons he imparted to me often.  He introduced me to Frank Zappa and we often spoke of music, literature,  and existentialism at great lengths.  I hope to encounter his spirit again in my lifetime. 

 Mr Burke was the coolest,  and by far my favorite  teacher at Nova High. He taught geometry, a subject I still have a love for today because of the way he made it interesting. RIP

Mr. Burke was a kind, loving, and funny spirit. He never seemed to let the stress bother him. He was an excellent Geometry teacher and happy soul.

I was introduced to Joe by the late Kathy Murray, a fellow teacher. He facilitated my introduction to Mandarava House where I finally felt at home with my spirituality. The drives with Joe to West Palm Beach were shared with Erik Luc, another Jazz enthusiast and musician. Those drives northward and home again were filled with laughter from the telling of riotous stories and jokes, and with the wonderful sounds of jazz pieces for which Joe usually had a more interesting tidbit of information than the radio announcer. This comes too late, but thank you, Joe, for the many introductions; I will always have cherished memories of you which make me smile. My heart and thoughts are with Babhi and family.

Joe was such a dear person and in my memories of him, seemed immortal with that big smile and wonderful gentle humor. Very cherished memories of Bobbi and Joe from Paris in the 70's. Sending the Bobbi and the family love and blessings
Melba and Hugh

Joe was a truly authentic and memorable person.  He answered honestly any question that was ever asked of him.  Funny and real.  We will all miss you and think of you often Joe.  Keep your compatriots laughing!

Mr. Burke was an amazing guy. An honor to have as a Geometry Teacher.

My senior year of high school Mr. Burke and I wrote a song together and played it for the Nova High Gong Show.  I will never forget how much fun he was as a teacher and a mentor.  I still remember the huge paper he asked me write for geometry for extra credit...he chose Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy, still my favorite book that I have now shared with my son who is entering Geometry himself.  Your legend lives on, Mr.Burke.

Mr. Burke was a wonderful teacher and person.

Joe was one of my favorite friends at Nova.  I so loved his video he made for me at my retirement.  Rest in peace my friend.

Great teacher. Will always be remembered.

Mr. Burke was one of my favorite teachers in high school. He made me LOOOOVE geometry. Great man as well.. Will be missed

Working with Joe Burke at Nova High School was an enriching experience for Amalia and I. His wit, character and interpersonal skills are memorable. We will miss him.

I will always remember Joe as such a joyful soul, full of humor and laughter. He will be missed!

Ellie and family, so sorry to hear about Joemy thoughts are with all of you.

Joe Burke and his brother Bim inspired me back in our college years in so many ways, including appreciation of music and more broadly about how to live life fully. My condolences to everyone in the extended Burke family.

My relationship with Joe was through the eyes and heart of his sister, Eleanor.  Joe, his wife, children  and the tales of their many adventures.  Eleanor stayed with them in Paris - I am still impressed. Here was this way cool older sibling.  (Mind you, El is the youngest - they were all way cool. Marylou gave El & I  Beatle trays!!!)  May you all find comfort in your faith, family and friends. May you grieve and celebrate in hope.  Love, Tish

Dear Uncle Joe, 
You were one of a kind- with the emphasis on kind.  Your gentle giving eccentric spirit will be missed but will stay with me for the rest of my days.
Love,
Peggy Ann

I attended grammar school and high school with Joe.   While I have not seen Joe in 50 plus years I remember him for his good humor, intelligence and care of others.  I am sure he made a great math teacher. 
I am also sure all who knew Joe will miss him dearly.  
Franny Minton 
St. Andrew's Class 1952
West Catholic HS Class 1956

Joe, I'm blessed because I knew you.  I will always cherish the memories I have with you, the laughter and the jokes.

OBITUARY

Joseph A. Burke

June 25, 1938 – February 5, 2015

Forest Lawn Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens

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