1936
2021
Richard "Dick" Lee Burke was born in Aberdeen, South Dakota on July 7th, 1936 to Joe and Lena Burke.
He is survived by an older sister Marilyn Wells of Saginaw, Michigan and a younger sister Janet
Gammill of Fruita, Colorado. As sisters they both have many fond memories growing up with Dick. His childhood was spent learning how to hunt and fish with many Burke relatives. Dick attended Northern
State College and took as many math classes as they offered! After College he joined the Army, which eventually led him to Colorado Springs. He fell in love with Colorado and called it home after finishing his stint in the Army. He stayed in Colorado Springs to work for National Cash Register and then moved to Durango in 1975. He utilized his accounting skills for Sunnyside Gold Mine and Sandco, Inc. Dick was also a member of the American Legion and received honors for being cited as an outstanding contributor. "Burke" made many friends over the years which was not hard, for all that knew him, knew he had a good heart. He was kind, loving and would do just about anything for his friends and family. His special dog Panda Bear, was his best friend and fishing partner for 17 years. He cared for her right down to the end and lost her just three weeks short of his passing. His smile would light up the room, not to mention his one of a kind sense of humor. Burke will forever be missed by many.
Richard Lee Burke passed away on June 2nd, 2021 at the Hospice House in Durango. Grateful for the professional and caring nursing staff. Dick's family would like to express their sincere appreciation to Tammy Jessup for the 35 years of friendship between them.
Military services will be held at Greenmount Cemetery on Saturday, July 24th, 2021 at 10:00 am.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Hood Mortuary - Durango.
3 Entries
My roommate, fishing buddy, and all around close friend over the 12 yrs I played piano at the Diamond Belle Saloon at the Strater Hotel. Our friendship continued via phone, email, and occasional visits. Saddens me not to be able to attend services as I'm in Montana. My sympathies to the family and friends who loved the "Burkester" as I did. His nickname for me was "Jose' RoweHo"
Jim Rowe
Jim Rowe
Friend
July 7, 2021
I Knew "Burkie" in the seventies and eighties when I lived in Durango. One of my favorite people ever. Condolences to his family.
Jane Baker Olk
Jane Baker Olk
June 25, 2021
Dick was a programmer with NCR Corporation in Colorado Springs when I started there in 1967. I only knew Dick casually but remember him as thoughtful cheerful guy that could get laughs with his quiet dry sense of humor from coworkers, especially after a couple of martinis at happy hour after work.
Nice guy, I had no idea he had retired to my home town.
RIP Mr. Burke.
John Paxton
Coworker
June 18, 2021
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