Raymond C. Burke

With heavy hearts and great sadness, the family of Raymond C Burke announces his passing at his home on October 22,2021. Raymond was born in Springfield MA to the late William and Belinda (Scott) Burke on August 3,1942. He attended local schools graduating from Classical high school class of 1960. Raymond went on to honorably serve his country in the United States Navy aboard the U.S.S. Barry. He wed the love of his life Eleanor Harrington in 1975 and together they spent 45 years happily married. Ray and Ellie lived in East Longmeadow for over 20 years relocating to Agawam and finally to Westfield recently. Ray chose a career in sales and retired from Verizon after many years as a successful member of their team. Ray was a man of many talents among them was as a musician playing the banjo, accordion, and the spoons. In his leisure he enjoyed watching NASCAR and was an avid fan. He was proud of his Irish heritage and continued the traditions with great enthusiasm. He was an active member of the St. Patrick’s parade committee in Holyoke as well as Springfield. Ray was a loving husband and a devoted father and beloved grandfather. Spending time with his family and showering them with his love was his greatest pleasure.
Ray is survived by his beloved wife Eleanor and his devoted children, Maureen Burke of Westfield, Daniel Burke of Agawam and Paige Burke and her husband Kevin of Boston. To carry on his legacy, he leaves his cherished granddaughters Cora and Colleen. He is survived by his beloved brothers Vincent and his wife Lynne Burke of Darien CT and Kevin and his wife Barbara Burke of Hyannis, sisters-in -law Ruth Daigneau, Joan and her husband Ronald Kokernak, Helen Harrington and brother-in-law Edmond Bowler as well as many nieces and nephews and countless friends.
Calling hours for Ray will be held on Wednesday October 27,2021 from 4-7 P.M. at the Agawam Funeral Home 184 Main St Agawam. Family and friends will gather on Thursday October 28 at 8:45 and process to St. John the Evangelist church for a 10 o’clock liturgy of Christian burial followed by committal services with full military honors at 11 A.M. at the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery. For remembrances in Ray’s name the family suggests considering St. John the Evangelist Preschool 833 Main St Agawam MA 01001 or Alzheimer’s Association Mass/New Hampshire 225 N. Michigan Ave Floor 17 Chicago Ill. 60601