Paul J. Burke

Lt. Paul J. Burke (Ret.), 56, a lifelong Dunmore resident, died unexpectedly Monday from injuries received long ago in the line of duty with the Dunmore Fire Department.

Born in Scranton, he was the son of the late Robert W. and Nancy Coggins Burke and was a graduate of Dunmore High School class of 1978.

Paul had a special affinity for all animals and was a great outdoorsman. At night, he and his beloved dog, Sally, would sit on the couch and watch television together. It was really something to see. Paul had a great wit and was always keeping people in stitches. A loyal and generous brother and friend, he was always willing to lend a hand. He was much loved, and his memory will forever be lodged in the hearts of all who knew him. He loved his family, friends, Sally and the fire department. He is finally without pain but the world is a darker place without him.

Surviving are his loving son, Paul J. Jr. and grandchildren, Layla and Delilah, all of Dunmore; brothers, Bob and wife, Moya, Clarks Summit; Tim and wife, Carmella, Dunmore; sisters, Colleen Sands and husband, Rick, Jenkintown, Pa.; Marybeth Krouchick and husband, Ken, Dickson City; an aunt, Barbara Burke, Dunmore. nieces, Angie, Sara and Jessica; nephews, Kenny and Robbie; former wife, Debra Pettinato Tomaino; several great-nieces and great-nephews; cousins and friends.

A visitation will be held Saturday from noon to 3 p.m. at the Carlucci-Golden-DeSantis Funeral Home Inc., 318 E. Drinker St., Dunmore. Interment is private at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Griffin Pond Animal Shelter, 967 Griffin Pond Road, South Abington Twp., PA 18411; or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

For online condolences, please visit www.DunmoreFuneralHome.com.