Thomas Stephen Burke

Thomas Stephen Burke, of Chester NH, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, passed away peacefully on November 30, 2025, at the age of 78, after a courageous battle with cancer. Tom was raised in Clinton, MA, a son to the late Thomas P. and Esther M. (Hughes) Burke.

He is survived by his brother, James (Jim) Burke and predeceased by his sister, Mary Ellen Vincent and brother, Lawrence (Larry) Burke.

Born on March 15, 1947, Tom lived a life defined by devotion to family, loyalty to friends, and a spirit of generosity that touched everyone he met. He married the love of his life, Linda (LaCourse) Burke, in 1970. Together they built a beautiful life and family. In his final days Tom's greatest concern was not for himself but for his family and, most importantly, his wife Linda - a reflection of the deep bond they shared for over five decades.

Tom and Linda raised four sons, each of whom carries forward his legacy of kindness, humor, and strength. Stephen and Deborah (Harmon), Patrick and Amie (Gutierrez), Samuel and Daniele (Moran), and David and Shelly (Bond) Burke. Though Tom was blessed with sons, his daughters-in-law held a special place in his heart, embraced as if they were his own and connected by a mutual love.

He was a proud grandfather to nine grandchildren. Griffin, Zoie, Jaida, Colin, Jackson, Elaina, Sophie, Brendan, and Amelia Burke brought him endless joy. Tom delighted in cheering them on at hockey games, gymnastics, baseball, and concerts. He also enjoyed being called Uncle by his 11 well-loved nieces and nephews. He was a constant presence at birthdays and family gatherings, always ready with a smile, a joke, or a word of encouragement. He was engaged in their lives, inquisitive about their interests, and a good listener that connected at their level, offering both perspective and unwavering support.

Professionally, Tom was a graduate of SNHU, formerly NH College. Later, he was proud to have earned his CPA and CFE licenses. Tom dedicated 30 years of service to the State of New Hampshire Insurance Department, where he rose to the position of Director of Examinations. There he forged friendships that endured long after his retirement. His colleagues remember him as a man of integrity, warmth, and wisdom.

Outside of work, Tom was the quintessential "hockey dad," always supportive and encouraging, ensuring his sons never wanted for anything. He also shared his love of golf with his boys from a young age, spending countless hours with them and later his grandchildren at Derryfield Golf Course and as a proud member of Concord Country Club.

Tom's friends and family will remember his sly smile, quick wit, and love of a good joke. He was a deceptively skilled pool player and loved "The Fighting Irish" of Notre Dame. He enjoyed hosting gatherings, mixing up his famous margaritas or mudslides, and making everyone feel welcome.

Tom was not only a man of warmth and family, but also of strength and toughness. He was resilient in life, overcoming many challenges with grit and quiet determination. He greeted friends with a firm handshake and carried himself with a presence that commanded respect. Beneath that toughness was a rare tenderness, the ability to be both strong and caring. His family and friends knew they could always count on him.

Above all, Tom was the greatest father his sons could have asked for. He was a mentor, a friend, a protector, and ever present in their lives. He was a man of his word, who taught them about the importance of honesty, loyalty, and that respect is earned, not given. His legacy of love, laughter, and steadfast devotion will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

SERVICES: Calling Hours will be held on Thursday (12/4) at Lambert Funeral Home & Crematory, 1799 Elm St. in Manchester from 5pm-7pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday (12/5) at St. Catherine of Siena Parish, 207 Hemlock St in Manchester at 10am. Burial will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Manchester.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Kids Care (Kids-Care2018.org ) or Bring it After School (BringItAfterSchool.org) These charities were near and dear to Tom and his family.

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