Joseph Francis Burke

BURKE - Joseph Francis Age 67, beloved husband of Marlene (Studley) Burke; dear father of Joseph and Yvonne; grandfather of Corey; loving brother of three sisters and two brothers and many nieces and nephews, peacefully passed away on October 16, 2008. Joe was born and raised in Buffalo, NY, where he attended St. Josephs Prep School on a scholarship and subsequently attended the University of Buffalo. He moved to Cincinnati, OH in 1970 where he served as New York Lifes youngest General Manager. Thereafter, he received many national designations, including becoming one of the countrys youngest Chartered Life Underwriters and a Registered Financial Planner. It was also in Cincinnati where Joe met Marlene, and their ambitions led Joe to move to Florida and seek a more independent business path. Joe was a long-standing member of the National Registers Whos Who in Executives and Professionals and an Honorable Commissioned Kentucky Colonel. He was also past president of the Irish Sertoma Club of Clearwater Beach. Proud of his Irish heritage, Joe will most assuredly be remembered for his exuberant celebration of many a St. Patricks Day. Being one of the original Marketing Companies representing Life USA/Allianz, a life insurance/annuity company, Joe set his path on greatness. Later becoming a member of the Board of Marketing Directors for LifeUSA/Allianz, Burke & Associates, continued to climb and accumulate top honors for contributing to LifeUSA/Allianzs growth, development and profitability. Joe continued his success with Forethought Financial Group Annuity Division and earned a seat on Forethoughts initial Advisory Board. Just as with Allianz, Burke & Associates Marketing Company ascended to the pinnacle of success with Forethought. In fact, on the day that Joe passed away, Burke Marketing became their #1 producer. Joe would have been exceptionally proud of this accomplishment. Those who knew Joe were touched by his direct, to the point, giving ways. He led with his heart where generosity always followed. If Joe were here, he would surely encourage each of us to live life to the fullest, believe in our dreams, and most of all believe in ourselves. A Memorial and Mass will take place on Saturday, October 25, 2008, at 1:00 PM at Saint Catherines Catholic Church, 1955 South Belcher Road in Clearwater (727-536-5779). A subsequent Memorial Mass will be held in Buffalo, NY on a later date. Immediately following the local service, there will be a gathering of friends and associates at the Old New York New York, 18573 US Highway 19 North, Clearwater, Florida (727-539-7441). For those who cannot make the service or would just like to share stories about Joe, you can go to Making Everlasting Memories at www.mem.com, look up Joseph Francis Burke (July 25, 1941) and sign the online guest book. As Joe had been the doting master of 3 lively Labradors: Zeno, Ziggy, Zorro and a new addition, named K.C., anyone wishing to donate to Joes favorite charity may contact the Humane Society of North Pinellas at 3040 State Road 590, Clearwater, Florida (727-797-7722). We dearly miss you, Joe! Moss Feaster/Belcher FUNERAL HOME, 727-562-2070.