Tom Burke

Thomas "Tommy" Eugene Burke, 82, of Leavenworth, passed away Saturday, Oct. 20, 2007, at home peacefully, with his family by his side as he had wanted.
Tom was born on Aug. 5, 1925, in Leavenworth, to the late Edward and Teresa (Nietske) Burke. Throughout his childhood he attended the St. Paul Lutheran Schools.
In August 1942, at the age of 17, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy after the attack on Pearl Harbor. He served during World War II until 1946 and then again during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged in August 1954, after serving on the USS Nevada, USS Oriskany and the USS Vincennes.
He married Betty Lou Streit (LHS Class of 1952) in May 1960, and together had three children. After the Navy, he worked at Fort Leavenworth as a civil engineer until his retirement in 1980. He was a member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles No. 55, and served as president from 1976 to 1977. He was also a member of the VFW, DAV, AARP, and of St. Paul Lutheran Church.
Some of his favorite pastimes were golfing, watching football, car races and going to the casino, in his efforts to win "The Big One." His luck was good on several occasions. He also loved to be around friends and family. He is remembered for making others laugh, and for always being on the go. His family will remember him as a kind, gentle father who loved them very much. He would not want his family to mourn him but celebrate his long life. He also enjoyed his service to his country, noting throughout his travels that cultures may differ, but the human nature is the same.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and a sister, Patricia Burke.
Tom is survived by his three children, Daniel Burke, Laura and husband Daniel Jacobs and Susie and husband Ian Murphy; three granddaughters, Amanda Jacobs, Jessica Jacobs and Elizabeth Dulchinos; and one grandson, Colin Murphy.
Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 24, 2007, in the Belden-Larkin Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 23, 2007, in the funeral home. Interment will take place at Fort Leavenworth National Cemetery. In Lieu of flowers, a Thomas Burke memorial fund has been established.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Belden-Larkin Funeral Home and Cremation Services. Condolences may be sent to www.beldenlarkin.com.