Matthew T. Burke

Matthew Thomas Burke, of Livonia, passed away on April 12, his 63rd birthday surrounded by his loving family. Mr. Burke was born in Detroit to James and Clara Burke, the first of their four children. Matt was a 1975 graduate of Farmington Harrison High School. From there he received his Bachelor’s Degree from Oakland University. Matt spent his career as an Account Manager in sales of pneumatic equipment to automotive parts manufacturers. In 1976 Matt met Margaret “Peggy” Gardner through mutual friends. They married on April 15, 1978. Together they raised their two sons in Livonia. Matt’s past-times included reading, listening to and playing music on his guitar. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus George F. Monaghan Council #2690 and his faith was very important to him. Matt liked to be involved in church activities. He loved cars of all types and enjoyed viewing the vehicles at the Woodward Dream Cruise.

In addition to his wife of 42 years, Peggy, Matt is survived by his sons, Stephen (Laurisa) Burke and Brendan (Kristan) Burke; five grandsons, Benjamin, Brady, Winston, Graham, and Sawyer; brother, Gerald (Kathy) Burke; sisters, Emily (Mike) Reinhard and Sarah (Scott) Orwig; father and mother-in-law, Thomas Gardner and Carol Gardner; sisters-in-law, Nancy Bearden, Mary Gardner, Teresa (George) Wrathell, Patty Tosto, Janet (Dustin) Popa; and brother-in-law, Tom (Elena) Gardner. Many nieces and nephews also survive.

Private burial services at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery 25800 West Ten Mile Road, Southfield 48033 on Friday, April 17, 2020.

A memorial funeral mass and celebration of Matt's life will be held Saturday, August 8, 2020 at St. Kenneth Catholic Church, 14951 Haggerty Road, Plymouth, Michigan 48170 at 11:30 a.m. Friends may gather and visit with the family at church from 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Donations in memory of Matt may be made to the Salvation Army 33600 Plymouth Rd, Livonia, MI 48150

(www.satruck.org).

Please share a memory of Matt or condolences with his family at his online guest book.