In Memory of James T. Burke

Obituary

James T. Burke, 78, b. March 24, 1945, d. July 27, 2023, of New Hartford, NY passed away at St. Elizabeth's Hospital, Utica NY, with his family by his side. Jim lived a life full of loving family, friends, and filled with all the trials and tribulations living brings.

Jim married his life’s blessing and shepherd, Ronnie, at St. John’s Church in Plattsburg NY on November 22nd, 1969. Her commitment to Jim created a life-long bond that spanned 54 years. They raised a family of three, and graciously welcomed a young child into their home, creating an extended family filled with all the struggles and joys of family life and love.

Jim’s cantankerous spirit no doubt gave the children he raised the grit to navigate life, and the stubborn voice they share in standing their ground, and a steadfastness built on hope. Characteristics that bode strength and survival- just as Jim learned from being raised on a farm in Beekmantown, NY.

Rarely understood about Jim is the tenderness of his heart. Beneath his gruff exterior and cantankerous spirit rested a heart bigger than the fist he met life challenges with. He kept it hidden as most hardened humans do. It did from time-to-time peak through. It is these moments that one could see his deep love and appreciation for his extended family. Although this reality comes with reservation, Jim deeply loved Ronnie, Jimmy, Nina, Amy, Jennifer (his bonus child), all his grandkids, and his extended family as best he humanly knew how.

As far as his sisters, Jim loved them, too. He always showed up, he always lent a hand, and he did so without fail. Being the only boy in a family of women is no easy feat. There Jim stood, side by side with his sisters, with a smile on his face and joy in his eyes. If ever a man could identify with sisterly love, it was Jim. And if turning hardship into laughter was a skill, Jim and his sisters mastered it! Playing jokes on each other and their parents has given generations stories filled with smiles and admiration as the reality of life back then, was heard as nothing shy of painstaking physical labor and daily sacrifice of today’s young adult freedoms.

Jim lived a life of experiences- the harsh work of a farmhand, a protective son and brother, a decorated Army veteran, a respected and fair business owner and supportive boss as owner of Waldrons Floor Covering in Sidney NY, loyal friend, dedicated husband, staunch father, caretaker, and uncle, and beloved grandad. As one might expect, his green thumb, dedicated and patriotic character, and sarcastic, coarse demeaner has left his loved ones with cherished beauty, a stoic commitment, and an angst. Jim loved Ronnie and his children, working to provide them with opportunity he was never afforded.

Jim took solace and pride in renovating his home, landscaping and gardening, creating tradition, celebrating holidays, pushing his children to be the best version he saw of them, and cheering on his favorite sports teams- especially those of his grandkids. His grandkids were his favorite pastime. To behold the care Jim gave in creating and providing a beautiful home and staunchly raising a family is undeniable. The angst from his loss will soften in time. His steely life lessons have left strength of character in its place. Time yields wisdom, and Jim’s own humored humility of failings will echo in his words and deeds.

Surviving are his wife Veronica Dobby Burke; His Children James D and Lorraine Burke of New Hartford, Nina Burke Mullen and Matt Bednarczyk (fiancé) of New Hartford, Amy D and Scott Bennett of New Hartford, his loved extended family Jennifer and her husband Peter Logue; His Grandchildren Emma and Jack Burke- Quinn and Burke Mullen- Brendan, Benjamin and Molly Alexander- Brooks, Nellie and James Logue; His sisters Phyllis Castine, Mary Jane Carter and Dorothy Minta Menard all of Beekmantown NY- Kay Stafford of Troy NY.

He was predeceased by his parents James L Burke and Dorothy Tucker Burke and his sister Mollie Snow all of Plattsburg NY.

Please join in sharing and celebrating Jim’s life August 19th, 2023 at 2:00 PM for Interment of Ashes at Independence Cemetery, Saranac, NY Officiated by Pastor Phil Richards.

In lieu of flowers, contributions, or other remembrances, please consider a memorial donation for maintenance to Saranac Independence Cemetery in memory of James T. Burke: PO Box 161, Saranac, NY, 12981.

Please share your memories and stories of Jim: veronicaburke90@yahoo.com

Arrangements are with Friedel, Williams & Edmunds Funeral and Cremation Services, New Hartford.