Heaven welcomed another angel as Robert Joseph Burke (forever known as our beloved “Daddy Bob”) peacefully passed away on Monday January 11, 2021 in his 99th year at Brantford General Hospital after a brief illness. Cherished husband of Ruth Burke and their children Micki (Claus Thomsen), Michael, Mary Anne (Wayne Dimaline) and Betty Lou (Chris Peck). Adored grandfather to Mackenzie (and grandpets Mooky, Jynx and Domino). He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews and family both in Ontario and in Nova Scotia.
Born in Cannes, Cape Breton Nova Scotia on Sept 29, 1922 to Simon and Laura Burke and was the last of his 6 siblings (Mae, Gerald, Howard, George, Helen and Clarence). Bob proudly served his country in WWII (1 st Canadian Parachute Battalion) and then went on to marry the love of his life (his “Kitten”) Ruth on July 16, 1955. Together they built a wonderful life and raised their family in Brantford. Bob retired in 1987 after 35 years of service with Hussmann’s Store Equipment, and was a life member of the Brant Artillery Gunners Club where he and Mom shared many happy memories with their friends.
His gentle soul and warm smile touched the hearts of everyone he met. His greatest joy was having time with his family, telling funny stories of days gone by, watching his beloved Blue Jays in the summer and his Pittsburgh Penguins in the winter. Dad loved a good game of cards and enjoyed outings with Mom to the casino. We are so blessed, proud and privileged to have had such a wonderful husband, father and grandfather for all these years.
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to everyone who helped make it possible for our parents to remain in their home all these years. Our neighbours (especially Mr. and Mrs. “T”, Bob “next door”, Dennis and Marilyn), Brenda, the wonderful PSW’s from Bayshore that came each day, and the staff at BGH (both 6th floor and Palliative care).
At Bob’s request there will be no service; cremation has taken place (services entrusted to Dennis Toll Funeral Home). In lieu of flowers the family invites those to donate to the charities that were dear to him; Brant County SPCA, Canadian Cancer Society and the Gunners Club. Once COVID 19 restrictions have lifted, a Celebration of Life will be held where we can share all his great stories and raise a glass to toast a life well lived.
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Monday January 11th 2021
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Robert Joseph Burke Monday January 11th 2021..
Décès pour la Ville:Brantford, Province: Ontario