Francis Daniel Burke

Francis (Frank) Daniel Burke, Sr., 96, passed away at the San Diego VA Medical Center on December 6, 2023. He began his life on this earth in Mahanoy City, PA, on September 4, 1927, and was an only child. His parents were Francis James and Anna (Schmidt/Smith) Burke. Frank was raised in Mahanoy City and left the coal mining town after graduation from high school in 1945 to join the U.S. Marine Corps. He met the love of his life, Rose Vinci, in May 1950, and they were married on December 23, 1950. Frank was stationed in a variety of USMC bases, both domestic and abroad, to include Camp LeJeune, NC; Parris Island, SC, where he served as a Drill Instructor; Quantico, VA; and 29 Palms, Camp Elliott, and Camp Pendleton, all in southern California. He also served in the Pacific Theatre in the late 1940’s; the Korean war (1953-54), Vietnam (1965-66), and a host of other locations in the far East. He retired from the USMC in January 1968, having served for 22.5 years. He then spent the next 20 years as a dedicated employee with the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) and retired in 1988. He earned an Associates in Art Degree in Postal Supervision from San Diego Evening College while employed by the USPS. Frank enjoyed sports, both as a participant and viewer. He played football in high school, handball while in the USMC, was an avid golfer and bowler, and you could find him watching sports every weekend, as well as attending San Diego Chargers games. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, who loved his wife, children, and grandchildren with all his heart. He will be missed dearly by those who have survived him - his four children, Patricia C. Berzins (Gunars), Kathleen F. Evans, Francis D. Burke, Jr., and Toni A. Ellex; grandchildren, Anthony J. Evans and Patricia V. McQuay (David); and long-time neighbors and friends. Frank was predeceased by his parents, Francis James and Anna (Schmidt/Smith) Burke and grandson, Michael D. Uyeda (Nicole).

Frank’s family would like to thank the health care professionals at the San Diego VA Medical Center and UCSD for the outstanding care and comfort provided to Frank during his time at both locations.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) or Boys Town. Please see links on Frank's website.