Kevin James Bourke

Kevin James Bourke, passed away at age 66 on February 15, 2021 in the company of his wife Mary Anne Bourke and his son Patrick Bourke. Kevin, a lifelong resident of the Southside of Chicago, was a lifelong learner committed to supporting causes related to environmentalism, social justice, and the exploration of space. Kevin was a first generation college student and attended Marquette University on a full scholarship through the Evans Scholars program. He met some of his greatest friends through the program as well as the Marquette Rugby Club where he served as club President. Kevin worked in various areas of real estate and he cited the best part of his work as being the moment when people were able to buy their first home. Kevin played an active role in his son, Patrick's life and helped found Ridge Academy, an elementary school in Beverly, where his son attended. He also helped coach Patrick's baseball teams. Kevin enjoyed nature hikes with Mary Anne, decorating their home for Christmas, and visiting Patrick and his wife, Nadila Yusuf in Los Angeles. Kevin, a science enthusiast, recently published a children's book, The Journey of Franki the Photon. He was thrilled to share his passion for science with young people. Kevin was the son of the late Stephen and Delia Bourke, who immigrated to the United States from Ireland in the 1940s, and is survived by his siblings: Kathleen Bourke, Stephen Bourke (Kay), Martin Bourke (Lori), and Debbie Strubin (Fred).