Mike Burke

James "Mike" Burke, Jr., of Onset and longtime resident of Walpole, passed away on January 15, 2026, at the age of 76. Though he reached great heights in his career, Mike was most defined by the quiet, steady way he showed up for the people he loved.

Mike's life was anchored by his 47-year marriage to the love of his life, Susan (Brown). Over nearly five decades, he was her rock, gently teaching her the art of patience and the value of reflection before reacting to life's challenges. Together in Walpole, they raised their son, Greg, whom Mike supported with unwavering pride, always eager to pass down his skills and wisdom. He was also a loyal friend to Steve Sullivan, with whom Mike always stood by through every decision and phase of life since their time sharing a tent in Boy Scouts. To his family, friends, and coworkers, Mike could always be counted on in good times and bad-whether you needed a hand fixing a car or just a bit of his trademark humor and heart.

His life was fueled by a relentless work ethic and a desire to provide. After serving honorably in the United States Navy from 1969 to 1973, Mike put himself through college by working as a truck driver, often hauling potatoes by day while attending classes at Northeastern in the evenings. He was always pushing toward the next goal for his family.

His determination eventually led him to the skies. A graduate of East Coast Aero Tech, Mike's professional life was rooted in a passion for aviation. In his early years, he found great joy as a flight instructor, sharing his knowledge and helping others find their own wings. Following his time as an instructor, Mike landed his first job as a full-time pilot serving as a test pilot for MIT for five years, where he further honed his craft. This spirit of mentorship and technical expertise guided him as he rose to become the Director of Corporate Aviation at Raytheon, building a world-class flight department over the course of a 36-year career.

Mike was a "gearhead" in the truest sense-a man of high curiosity and gifted hands. He could fix and operate almost anything, from planes and cars to snowmobiles and boats, and he was never happier than when he was using those skills to help someone who needed support.

Boating was one of Mike's favorite ways to combine his mechanical talents with his professional navigation skills. Ever the teacher, Mike began teaching Greg how to captain the boat almost as soon as he could walk. As Greg grew older, Mike was happy to sit back and enjoy the ride, offering an occasional bit of gentle feedback from the passenger seat. Boating was a hobby that brought the whole family together, tapping into Mike's passions while Susan enjoyed the social side of their days on the water.

Mike is survived by his devoted wife, Susan Burke; his son, Greg Burke; his best friend, Steve Sullivan; and his siblings, Patty O'Donnell, Danny Burke, Ann Marie Connolly, and Paul Burke. He was the son of the late Frances Alice (Dornig) and James Michael Burke and leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and friends who adored him.

Visiting hours will be held on Friday, February 6th, from 11:00AM–1:30PM at Chapman Funerals & Cremations – Wareham, 2599 Cranberry Hwy (Rt. 28). Burial will follow at the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Southcoast Health at Home Hospice or the National Kidney Foundation.