John F. Burke

John F. Burke, a beloved Retired Wilmington Fire Lieutenant, fondly known as "Jack", "Trigger", or "JF" if you were around the Fire House in Wilmington, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on September 28, 2025; he was 91 years old.

Jack was born in Jamaica Plain, MA, on June 13, 1934; he was the dear son of the late William and Josephine (Carroll) Burke. As a young boy, Jack moved with his family to East Cambridge where he was raised and educated. Jack loved being from East Cambridge and would be proud to let everyone know his roots.

Jack enlisted in the United States Army on June 13, 1951, during the Korean War. Jack was assigned to Headquarters Battery 26th AAA Group, he served overseas and earned several commendations for his bravery including the National Defense Service Medal, the United Nations Service Medal, and the Korean Service Medal with 1 Bronze Service Star. Jack was honorably discharged in June of 1954 and returned home to his family.

Jack married the "love of his life" Margaret A. McGuinness, or "Nan" as she was fondly known, on October 14, 1968. The couple moved to Wilmington in 1969, where they were welcomed into their new community, settled in a great neighborhood, and made many new friends. Jack and Nan's house was always full of family and friends; they loved to entertain every chance they got. Jack was a devoted husband, dad, and Papa.

Jack was a hard worker throughout his life; he first started as a "call fireman" for the Town of Wilmington, before taking a permanent position as a fire fighter February 11, 1963. Jack loved being a fireman; he had a way with people that made them feel calm in the toughest of circumstances and he was a great co-worker. Jack retired on January 15, 1990 after many years of dedicated service to the Fire Department and the Town of Wilmington. Following his retirement, Jack could often be found around the firehouse reminiscing as he was the "unofficial photographer" of the department and captured the men and women of the firehouse in action helping others.

Jack was a long-time member of the Tewksbury/Wilmington Lodge of Elks where he was involved in countless fundraisers and community events. He would often be found out at the "Elks Grove" for many member cookouts where he enjoyed socializing with the other members and their families. Jack also loved to play pool; he was a competitive opponent using only his left hand and won more often than not.

In his spare time, Jack enjoyed going with Nan back to Ireland to visit with family and spent many summers at Treasure Island in Maine where they had many great times and made countless friends over the years. Jack looked forward to their horseshoe tournaments where his competitive streak came out and he was horseshoe champion on more than one occasion.

Jack will be fondly remembered for his sense of humor and his mischievous side; he was certainly a character. He had an unconditional love for his family, friends, and fellow firefighters; he will forever be loved and missed by all who knew him.

Jack was the beloved husband of the late Margaret A. (McGuinness) Burke, devoted father of Carroll Quinn and her husband Jeff of Wilmington, Ret. Police Lt. John F. Burke, Jr. of Weymouth, Jayne M. Burke, Betty A. Burke, and Suzanne Hardy. Loving "Papa" of Jack and Josie Quinn, Jason, Joseph, and Kasey Burke, Jeffrey and Shane Mahoney as well as several great-grandchildren. Dear brother of Joseph Burke of Arlington, and is predeceased by his siblings Paul Burke, Charles Burke, Helen Nocella Cpt. William Burke, and Carroll Graham. Jack is further survived by his nieces, nephews, and friends.

Family and friends will gather for Visiting Hours at the Nichols Funeral Home, 187 Middlesex Ave. (Rte. 62), Wilmington, MA, on Thursday, October 2nd from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. followed by a Service at 11:00 a.m. Interment with Military Honors will take place in Wildwood Cemetery, Wilmington, MA.

In lieu of flowers, donations in John's memory may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

To leave a message of condolence for the family please visit our website at www.nicholsfuneralhome.com