Daniel John Burke

Daniel J. Burke, age 78, of Fox Lake. Beloved son to the late William and the late Rose Burke. Loving brother to Margaret (Robert) Derouin, Virginia (the late John) Gannon, Roseanne (Gordon) Nash, William (Diane) Burke Jr., James P. (Jeanne) Burke, John P. (Jeanne) Burke, Kathleen (the late Andrew) Creighton, Colleen (Patrick) Cuisinier, and Thomas (Julie) Burke. Adored by his 33 nieces and nephews and several grand nieces and nephews. Daniel was born in Chicago and grew up in the South Shore neighborhood. He was the third oldest of a family of 10 children. His interests in mechanics and science were evident early as he built his own motorized go-cart at age 14. He even built his own telescope so that he could better see the stars. After graduating from Mount Carmel High School, Dan attended Wilson junior college until he was drafted into the U.S. Army, and later served in Vietnam. He returned to school and graduated from UIC with a degree in mechanical engineering. After several years working as a draftsman, he followed his love of aviation and worked at American Airlines until retirement. An early belief in solar power culminated in building his own house on a sunny side of a hill; performing all the trades with skills he learned in the building trade during his college years. His interest in mechanics knew no bounds and his interest led to leaded glass, 3-D printing, AI, and helicopters. His love of country music and karaoke stemmed from his years in Tulsa working for American. As licensed pilot, he later acquired his own helicopter in which he flew those family members willing to try. His latest interest was in building his own electric car which he drove in his Fox Lake neighborhood. Whether it was ice fishing, kayaking, or biking, Dan enjoyed being with his nieces and nephews. Dan's unique point of view made him as interesting as he was endearing to family members and friends. Visitation Monday, April 19, 2021, 10:30 a.m. until time of Funeral Mass 11:30 a.m. at Saints Faith Hope and Charity, 191 Linden Street, Winnetka, IL 60093. Live streaming will be available on Daniel's obituary page at donnellanfuneral.com. Interment Queen of Heaven Cemetery, Hillside, IL. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Leukemia Research Foundation, 191 Waukegan Road, Suite 105. Northfield, IL 60093. Info: donnellanfuneral.com or (847)675-1990.