John honorably served in the United States Navy, enlisting on April 13, 1967, dedicating his service in Vietnam until November 11, 1971, as a Hospital Corpsman Class 2. He continued his career in healthcare as a Pharmacist for 28 years. John lastly spent his time as the Director of Human Subjects Program at the University of Louisville before retiring in 2011.
John always had a book with him, finding value in expanding his mind and continued learning through text literature. Vacationing in the Outer Banks of North Carolina was a favorite place for him and his family over the years.
John took pride in his home, doing many projects as a family. Everywhere you look there is something that he, his wife, or parents created or inspired. Working with his hands and woodworking was a passion of his until recently, when he couldn’t do it anymore.
He is preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Rebecca J. Burke.
Left to cherish the memory of John are his devoted wife of 50½ years, Sylvia Biddle Burke, and his son, Brett Burke (Tina), who cherish his memory.
A visitation for John will be held Monday, November 4, 2024 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Heady-Radcliffe Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 706 W Jefferson St, LaGrange, KY 40031, followed by a funeral service at 1:00 PM before burial in Valley of Rest Cemetery in LaGrange.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be directed in John's memory to the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
