Michael G. Burke

Burke - Michael G., Battalion Chief FDNY 9/11 First Responder. Born at the family home in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn on January 27, 1947, the first of four children born to William and Dorothy Burke. He often spoke of how wonderful it was having a classic Brooklyn childhood growing up there in the '50s and '60s. Educated at St. Ephrem's in Bay Ridge, Cathedral Prep and St. Francis College. The friendships he made lasted a lifetime. Mike graduated from the fire academy in 1968. His promotions brought him to many stations throughout NYC, primarily in his beloved Brooklyn. He retired from the 35 Battalion in Williamsburg, Brooklyn after 42 years of service. Well respected and loved at the firehouse with a quick sense of humor and appreciation of a well planned prank. He was a gentle giant in life and tough opponent on the basketball court. He continued to play well into his 60s, always enjoying a few cold ones with friends after a game. With great love for the outdoors, he visited many of the National Parks where he enjoyed hiking, kayaking, camping, whitewater rafting, skiing, and swimming. But it was the ocean where he most felt at home. His decades-long passion for basketball allowed Mike to participate in the World Police and Fire Olympic competitions throughout the world for many years. He is survived by his wife, Pamela; beautiful daughter, Marybeth (John) DiLeo; grandchildren, Nick (Shae) DiLeo, Amanda (Slade) Fulmer; and his stepsons, Jesse and Dylan Craine. Also survived by his siblings, Ray and Lauretta (Uwe) Deichmann; and niece, Jacqueline O'Brien (Shelton). Predeceased by his brother Stephen Burke. 13 years after being diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease, his long journey ended peacefully surrounded by his family. The family would like to thank his wonderful caregivers at the Hidden Gem in Lake Ronkonkoma and The Beach Terrace Nursing Home in Long Beach for their love, kindness, and wonderful care. The family will receive friends on Monday, February 26 at 3:00PM-6:00PM at Christopher T. Jordan Funeral Home, 302 Long Beach Road, Island Park, NY. Jordanfh.com. Reception immediately following the Wake. Funeral Mass Tuesday, February 27 at 10:00AM at St. Mary of the Isle Church, Long Beach. Interment at St. Charles Cemetery in Farmingdale to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to FDNY Burn Center Foundation, nyffburncenter.com, or the charity of your choice.