Thomas F. Burke

1927 - 2023

Burke, Thomas F.
ALBANY - Thomas F. Burke, 96 of Albany, passed away peacefully at Albany Medical Center on October 20, 2023.
Tom was born in Oneida, N.Y. to Thomas F. and Marguerite Burke on September 6, 1927. After graduating from Oneida High School, where he was a three-sport star athlete, Tom served in the U.S. Army in World War II before graduating from Cornell University, his father's alma mater. A 1953 graduate of Albany Law School, he practiced in the Albany area for over 60 years.
While in law school, Tom met the love of his life, Marilyn, they were married in 1952, and recently celebrated their 71st anniversary. A devoted family man and father of three daughters, Tom was an enthusiastic Albany High School football fan, serving as team statistician, where his son-in-law, Bob, coached for 30 years. In addition, he was proud to earn the title of Super Senior Handball Champion at the Colonie Court Club, where he formed many lifelong friends. Tom was also a many-time champion of the Johnny Evers Golf League, an active member of the Knights of Columbus, Wolferts Roost Country Club, Albany YMCA, and the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, and the original grand marshall of the St. Patrick's Day Lash-Up.
Of his many professional and athletic accomplishments, Tom was most proud of his family. "Poppy" is survived by his loving wife, Marilyn; three daughters and seven grandchildren: Susan Flesh (Lawrence), and her children, Matthew Melnikoff (Kate) and Abby Melnikoff; Teri Branchini (Bob), and her children, Dr. Lauren Branchini Larkin (Jonathan), Nicole Mazzotti (Philip) and Amy Coyle (Connor); and Judy DiLorenzo (Rick), and her children, CJ Romano and Victoria Romano; his beloved caregiver, Ashanti Vargas (Shiyanna and Manny); 15 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Patricia Burke and Rosemary Reinhardt, and several nieces and nephews.
You could always find a pot of Poppy's sauce on the stove on Fullerton Street where the family gathered every Sunday for the Giants game, his favorite team. He was the biggest fan at all of his grandchildren's sporting events, activities and numerous milestones. His family never tired of hearing how admired he was for his kindness and generosity by everyone who knew him. His generosity continues, with his final gift to the Anatomical Gift Program at the Albany Medical College.
The family would also like to thank Dr. Jason Perlmutter and the nursing staff at C3 for their compassionate care.
Tom's wish was to have a private ceremony surrounded by his family.
Those wishing to remember Tom in a special way may send a contribution to the American Cancer Society at donate.cancer.org.