John Patrick BURKE

Good memories of your support and patience, Brother Director

Brother John, I hardly knew you when I lived with you for five years in community at De La Salle. As the years pass, and I perhaps become wiser, I am beginning to know you better. You are not a person of words. You are not a word-preacher of the Gospel, but a do-preacher of the Gospel, always willing to help others, always ready to give others a second chance. This falls in line with St. Francis of Assisi, who once said preach the Gospel, and you might use words occasionally.

James V. Blasi

John Burke was an outstanding Christian Brother. He had a profound view of the religious order. He made decisions that were for the benefit of the religious order, not for the benefit of his own tenure as principal of certain schools. He did what was best for the order. He took jobs that were difficult and challenging, jobs that would intimidate most people, like succeeding the very popular Brother Howard Jenkins as principal of De La Salle. It is always a struggle to succeed someone as popular as Brother Howard was, but Brother John Burke overcame the problems and helped De La Salle to continue to prosper. He was a courageous and dedicated person. The Brothers of prior years left a great legacy of education because of people like him who were willing to make great sacrifices even at the risk of their very lives. Brother John did not know the meaning of mediocrity. He always gave his all.

My most sincere condolences to Brother John's family. I was a lackluster student during my tenure at De La Salle but Brother John often interceded when my grades were poor and assumed the position as my mentor and as a positive role model for me. His quiet leadership and daily interactions with the students, faculty and community of Christian Brothers were a testimony to his Faith. His compassion enabled me to transcend a difficult part of my life and I will always be in his debt for the unrelenting support and affirmation he provided me.

Caring, calm and collected. Br. John was a effective leader who truly listened to his students. When I needed help, he was there. Brother John and his family will be in my prayers
DLS Class of '74

Brother John was always available to talk to and a real gentleman. He was also a very good tennis coach and player. I was sad to hear of his death. DLS Class of1963

My deepest condolences go out to the Burke family on the loss of a great mentor and leader. Brother John had a profound influence on many and was well respected.

I was deeply saddened to hear the loss of Brother John. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Harry Ward
DLS '77

I began my DLS career in 1969, in 8th grade. I graduated in 1974. John Burke, stands among a great group of MEN at De La Salle, who taught me, mentored me, and kicked my butt when needed - to get me to the next level. I won't forget him.
Jimmy Duckworth

I was Class of '76. During freshman orientation, he sat next to me at lunch, and I immediately felt at ease and at home. He was liked by all. Peace and Blessings to all of your family, Brother John, and rest in peace.

Brother John was a Class Act, a true gentleman, leader and role model. He went out of his way to help my family in a time of need. Rest in peace Brother John, now you are with Ms. Patty. My condolences to the family.

I was a student at De La Salle when Br. John was Principal.
He was the best person there and was the reason I went there. God Bless you Brother John and your family.

Brother John was my principal at DeLaSalle and my sister Dana dated Mrs Slattery's son before he became a Christian Brother himself..lots of fond memories. Rest in peace.

I was fortunate to have many influential mentors during the years I attended De La Salle HS, and Brother John was one of the best. My condolences to his family.

Br. John was a profound influence on me while a student at De La Salle. I send my deepest sympathy to his family.
RIP.
G. William (Bill) Seward, Jr.
DLS Class of '76