Emmett J. Burke

Emmett (Joe) Burke, 93, of Amherst, died, Sunday, November 27, 2011, at his residence. He was the husband of the late Mary Frances Burke. Born April 18, 1918, in Highwood, IL, he was the son of the late Harry and Mabel Burke.

Mr. Burke was a World War II veteran with the 104th Infantry Division in Germany, where he was decorated with the Bronze Star. He had 36 years serving the US Government, mostly as a special investigator with the Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms Department. Mr. Burke was also a house builder and an avid golfer.

In addition to his wife and parents, Mr. Burke was preceded in death by one son, Walter Burke and one daughter, Lori Burke.

Mr. Burke is survived by three sons, Stan Burke of Amherst, Mike Burke of Baltimore, MD and Harold Burke of Pennsylvania; one daughter, Karen Wilson and her husband Edward of North Myrtle Beach, SC; two step-daughters, Bonnie Sprouse of Nelson County and Patricia Campbell and her husband Jimmy of Virginia Beach; one sister, Mary Lou Middleton and her husband Lou of Orchas Island, WA; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren and numerous nephews and nieces.

There will be a private family memorial service at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to Centra Hospice – Hospice of the Hills.