Hugh D. Burke

Hugh David Burke, 90, of Shrewsbury, passed away on Tuesday, March 5, 2024 at Saint Vincent Hospital.
He leaves his beloved wife of 65 years, Alice G. (McGurn) Burke; their devoted children, Hugh D. Burke, Jr. and his wife Joanne, of Auburn, Patricia A. Frederick and her husband James, of Auburn, and Sean M. Burke and his wife Paula, of Worcester; grandchildren, Zachary Frederick and his wife Stacy, Ryanne Burke, Matthew Frederick, Erin Burke, Caitlin Burke, and Nolan Burke; great-granddaughters, Mackenzie Frederick and Madelyn Frederick; along with several nieces and nephews. Hugh was predeceased by his siblings, Ellen Walsh, Alice M. Burke, and Robert Burke.
Hugh was born in Orwell, Vermont to the late Jerome P. and Margaret E. (Cronin) Burke. He was raised and educated in Worcester, a 1952 graduate of Saint Peter's High School. Hugh began his military service in June of 1954, in the U.S. Army, and was honorably discharged in 1956.
He had a lengthy career working at Ma Bell, then NYNEX, now Verizon, and retired after 42 years of service in 1998.
In his free time, Hugh enjoyed jewelry making, and made many pieces for his family throughout the years. He loved spending time in his garden, cultivating both flowers and vegetables. Hugh was his grandkids' biggest fan, attending every game, event, and activity to support them. He was a wonderful storyteller and loved his Irish heritage.
He was an active member of St. Mary's Church, and made his Catholic faith the cornerstone of his life's journey. Hugh instilled that faith in his children by his actions, and was always willing to sacrifice some of the finer things in life to give his children a strong Catholic education.
Hugh was known to be courageous, and fought each trial and tribulation with grace. He was one who quite regularly visited the sacrament of reconciliation and by his action, showed his family the way to true love and peace. Let's face it, we all need forgiveness sometimes.
He had an easy smile and twinkling eyes. A gift of storytelling. Just watch him as he talked about his family. The love and pride he had in all of us who could call him husband, dad, father-in-law grandpa or great grandpa.
He loved a good party, and he and Alice had many a good party of their own. The chatter and laughter of their parties were infectious. They had a tremendous network of friends, and their neighborhood was always a gathering place for friends to host planned parties and impromptu cookouts.
Hugh was loyal first to his bride of 65 plus years. Alice was always his top priority in life. Then as a team they made their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, parents, siblings, nieces and nephews their top priority. He would travel anywhere to support and cheer on those he cherished. He and Alice were steadfast in their mission to visit their siblings when they were no longer able to get out themselves. Going almost daily and calling when they couldn't get there.
He was always generous with his love, time and attention. His ability and willingness to listen were admirable. Hugh was always ready and willing to help his kids with house or yard projects.
He was so creative, and could often be found in the cellar, working on a project – he made candles, lights with bottles and fairy lights, and especially his jewelry.
Hugh was so charming, and always wanted people to feel comfortable and welcome. Even when he was the patient, he tried to engage the staff and make them smile.
He absolutely loved his Boston sports teams, especially the Red Sox and Patriots. And, even more so, he loved any team that his children or grandchildren were playing on – he hated to miss any game. Hugh and Alice would travel three hours each way to see a one-hour game.
Hugh was hardworking, and was proud of his many accomplishments in life. He worked at the A&P store off and on during his youth. He was so proud of his time in the service, both in the Naval Reserves and active-duty Army. His time in Japan always brought him joyful memories.
A wonderful man, a true gentleman, has left us, but his legacy shall live on in our hearts and memories.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to American Cancer Society (www.cancer.org/donate).
Relatives and friends are invited to visit with the Burke family from 9 – 11 AM on Tuesday, March 12, 2024 at the BRITTON-SHREWSBURY FUNERAL HOME, 648 Main Street,
Shrewsbury. His funeral Mass will follow, and will be celebrated at 11:30 AM at St. Mary's Church, 640 Main Street, Shrewsbury, and burial with military honors will be held at Mountain View Cemetery.