Michael Vance Burke

Michael Vance Burke passed away on August 14, 2026, at the age of 62. He was a resident of Knoxville, Tennessee. A man quiet conviction, Michael believed deeply and was a God-fearing man. Saved many years ago, he knew Christ, and that assurance remained central to his life and hope.

While attending West High School in Knoxville, he took welding classes that became a defining part of his path. Under the guidance of his welding instructor, J.P.—an influence Michael held in high regard—Michael developed the discipline and focus that true mastery requires. After a few years, he started Burkes Mobile Welding and Fabrication. Over time, he learned, refined, and ultimately mastered welding and fabrication, building a legacy rooted in capability, precision, and pride in his trade. Michael was also an instructor at the Vocational School for years.

Michael was also was a mechanic. In 1984, I saw him putting together a 1980 Mazda truck and pieces of this truck was all over the property. He put it together like you would a puzzle and the truck ran extremely well!

Michael was a mentor to some, a friend, brother, and a second dad to some. He was a man of many interests. He loved fishing, gaming, making people laugh and wasn't afraid to tell you the truth. Michael will be greatly missed by family and many friends. We will see you again one day Mike!

Michael was preceded in death by parents, Sonny and Patricia Burke; grandparents, Gertrude and Claude Elliot; niece, Amanda Williams. He is survived by daughter, Jessica Marie Burke of Greenville, SC; grandchildren, Justin and Jordan Whitt of Knoxville, TN; siblings, Edward Burke of Newport, TN and Shirley "Penny" Mitchell (James) of Milton, FL; aunt, Donna (Dennis) Stachovic of Cape Coral, FL; nieces, Melissa (Taylor) Owens of Helena, AL and Brittany (Stephen) Marlow of Knoxville, TN; nephews, Daniel (Erin) Williams of Milton, FL; great nieces, Anna, Elizabeth, and Charlie Owens all of Helena, AL; great nephews, DJ and Cameron (Maddie) Williams both of Milton, FL; cousins, Albert Styles, Scarlett (Ben) Carpenter, Becky Moore of Knoxville, TN and J.W. Cole of Pinson, AL; special friend, Star Hawk of Scottsbluff, NE; friends, Doug Cole, Jason Velasquez, Joe Hatcher, Steve, all of Knoxville, TN, Try Hard of Puerto Rico and so many others, too numerous to name.

Family will receive friends Friday, August 28th from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at Berry Lynnhurst Funeral Home, 2300 West Adair Drive, Knoxville, TN 37918 with Graveside Service immediately following at Lynnhurst Cemetery. Pallbearers are Jason Velasquez, Daniel Williams, Stephen Marlow, Edward Burke, Doug Cole, and Jim Mitchell.