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BORN

1951

DIED

2024

FUNERAL HOME

Lillis Funeral Home

58 Bridge Street

New Milford, Connecticut

Christopher Rourke Obituary

Christopher Rourke
Christopher "Chris" Rourke, 72, of New Milford, husband of Regina (McNeill) Rourke, passed away suddenly on July 9, 2024, while on vacation in Sea Isle City, New Jersey, with his family.
Chris was born on September 14, 1951, in Greenwich, CT, son of the late Francis J. and Rita (Ryan) Rourke. Chris was known for his delivery of many products including Pepperidge Farm bread, Famous Amos cookies, and Wise Snacks and finally delivering people as an Uber driver during his retirement. He was an avid NY Jets fan, an amazing gardener known for his beautiful dahlias that he loved gifting, and his incredible baby back ribs. Chris loved a good conversation and sharing his stories about his life and family. His love for people and his family were his greatest virtues.
In addition to his wife of 43 years, Chris will be greatly missed by his three beloved children, Lindsey Burk and her husband, Weston, Tim Rourke and his wife Jessica, and Katelyn Marullo and her husband Andrew; his eight precious grandchildren, Liam, Evelyn and Alexandra Burk, Natalie and Layla Rourke, and James, Colin and Haley Marullo, and many, many adored nieces and nephews who loved him dearly. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his sister, Sue Vozzella, his brothers Peter and Danny Rourke, and granddaughter, Ella Grace Burk.
The family will receive friends at the Lillis Funeral Home, 58 Bridge Street, New Milford, on Friday, July 26, between the hours of 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. A memorial service will be held at 4:00 during the calling hours. The family is requesting that we honor Chris by wearing casual attire to calling hours. Burial will be private at a future time.
In memory of Chris, please plant a tree, a bush or a flower in his honor. He was also an organ donor and was able to give his corneas to help someone else. Donations can be made to the Gift of Life Foundation, Gift of Life Donor Program - Philadelphia, PA - Organ Donation.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Danbury News Times & New Milford Spectrum from Jul. 17 to Jul. 18, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
for Christopher Rourke

Sponsored by Lillis Funeral Home.

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Mary Ellen (Shaub) Ciminera

December 14, 2024

Very sorry to see this. Chris was a cousin on my mothers´s side. Many wonderful memories of his family growing up. Families separate but the childhood memories always remain. May he rest in peace.

Jen Follet

July 26, 2024

Thinking of you and your family!

Marissa Wandall

July 25, 2024

Lindsay, Katelyn and family I am so sorry to learn of your loss. Chris was FABULOUS and he will definitely be missed.

Maggie Stack

July 24, 2024

Gina - I am so sorry to hear of Chris's sudden death. When I saw it I had a flash back of our days at the store and all the fun and laughs we shared. My sincere condolences to you and the family. May Chris rest in peace.
Margaret Stack

Single Memorial Tree

Jen Doiron

Planted Trees

Flora Quammie

July 22, 2024

Chris was a kind and funny guy. Rest in peace. Sincere condolences to Gina and family.

Aaron Arnold

July 18, 2024

I was lucky enough to share a handful of tailgating and bbq events with Mr. Rourke. He was a very wonderful man. Sending my deepest condolences to Tim and Jess and the wider Rourke family during this difficult time.

Cathy G Colella

July 18, 2024

In this sorrowful time, I would like to extend to you, Regina, and your family my heartfelt condolences. May your happy memories give you peace and comfort during this challenging time. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Rita Gregory

July 17, 2024

My deepest condolences to you, Regina, and your family as you navigate this really difficult passage. My heart goes out to you all.

Antoinette Henry

July 17, 2024

Regina,
We are sending our condolence to you and your family on the sudden loss of your husband Chris.
I will never forget how much you both welcome us to your home during the Christening of Kennady.
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Love, "Chippy " and Family.
Baltimore, Maryland

Kandi Young

July 17, 2024

I will always remember the good times, from the softball team to the bowling team. I still have my tea cup he gave me many years ago “another year older and bowling still sucks”. Rest in peace Chris. Love and condolences to the family.

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Memorial Events
for Christopher Rourke

Jul

26

Visitation

2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Lillis Funeral Home

58 Bridge Street, New Milford, CT 06776

Jul

26

Memorial service

4:00 p.m.

Lillis Funeral Home

58 Bridge Street, New Milford, CT 06776

Funeral services provided by:

Lillis Funeral Home

58 Bridge Street, New Milford, CT 06776

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