William T. Burke

Bill and Feli were two of the most wonderful people I ever met. I feel privileged to have been a friend and part of their lives for many years. They were both possessed of the finest qualities of human nature, were interested in everything, stayed engaged in life, and contributed positively to the lives of everyone they encountered. As saddened as I am by their passing, I know they are together and looking after us.
Martin, Seattle

It was my honor to be one of Bill's former students and graduate research assistants. He stepped in and provided me with financial assistance when I desperately needed it and helped me find my first job in the field of marine affairs. Throughout his life he remained available to me whenever I needed guidance, as I know he did for a generation of students who attended his LL.M. program at the University of Washington. I will remember Bill with profound fondness and respect and wish all who...

Although he probably did not know it, Professor Burke had an immense influence on my life and my career. He told me, "You cannot predict the opportunities you will be offered, but you can only take advantage of them if you are prepared for them." With his encouragement to prepare to pursue what I was most interested in, I launched on a career that has been personally very satisfying and always interesting. He was always warm and welcoming when I visited his office. He was just a very very...

Bill Burke was a warm and generous man who was idolized by his young nieces and nephews. Uncle Bill's visits were joyously anticipated and his jokes and laughter made the occasions memorable. I felt especially lucky because he was also my godfather and I still treasure an anthology of stories from around the world that he gave me for my birthday. He was a very, very intelligent man with strongly held beliefs who enjoyed arguing politics and social issues. He will be greatly missed and...

When the time comes, it is never easy. But it seems your Dad lived a life that most people would envy, and provided good memories to go on with you for all your life.

I am so sorry to hear of your loss, Bill was someone who enriched many peoples' lives and I consider myself so fortunate to be one such person. We met through a mutual friend some years ago, and I treasure the opportunity Bill provided to tap into his vast knowledge and sage advice on marine affairs. I wish to express my deepest sympathy to his family and to his friends and colleagues.