William Burke

Sadly, William left us suddenly, unexpectedly but peacefully on September 27, 2023.

Born in 1939, he and three siblings served as war babies in Nova Scotia before moving to Southern Ontario, where they greeted a fifth sibling and settled down. After high school, William had a successful career of a few years in shoe sales before earning a teaching degree that eventually brought him to Northwestern Ontario. He taught in Atikokan, Mine Centre, Ferland, and Sioux Narrows, and from there to Kenora with the KDSSB where he taught for 20 years until his retirement in 1997.

He thoroughly enjoyed his years of creativity with primary students, aided by a guitar - his best teaching tool. Learning was fun for his students and himself. His specific interests were in photography and Trylight Theatre, dogs, and cars. He kept up-to-date on all designs and technology.

After his retirement from teaching, his talents matured to include the “Other Mothers Sons” and later the “Brothers Burke” who continued the traditional musical nonsense for a more than a few years delighting audiences with a taste for senior entertainment.

His dedication to friends in this age category resulted in hours spent with residents of Pinecrest Home and others.

No visitation or public service will be held. If so desired, donations in William’s memory may be offered to ‘It’s a Dog’s Life,’ Kenora.

He is sorely missed by sisters Phyllis and Diane, brothers Phil (Pat) and Greg (Helen), and members of his extended family, and friends.

As inscribed on his grave marker, “T’was ever thus.”

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.brownfuneralhomekenora.com for the Burke family.