April 11, 1931 to September 20, 2013
Gerald John Burke was born in Stamford, Connecticut on April 11, 1931. He was the eldest child of five and son of Margaret and Gerald Patrick Burke who both immigrated from Ireland years earlier. Known as Jerry to his friends and family, he served four years in the U.S. Army based in Washington DC where he met his wife of 61 years Janet. After his military service, he married Janet and began a career with the phone company. Together they raised a family and in 1972 relocated to Pompano Beach, Florida. After completing a 30 year career that spanned C&P Telephone, Southern Bell, and Bell South, Jerry started a family telecommunications business.
Jerry was a devoted husband and father of four. He always had a love for the sea and enjoyed sailing, fishing, and cruising the islands. Jerry enjoyed time with his family and could tackle any project from constructing a cottage to building decks and docks.
Jerry is predeceased by his sister Noreen Kelly and grandson Finn Burke. Jerry is survived by wife Janet, children Margaret Rains, Gerald Burke, Michael Burke and his wife Kristin, and Kathleen Colina and her husband Ray, and grandchildren Wendy, Hunter, Griffin, Andrew and Sarah. Jerry is also survived by his sister Eileen Pomponi, brother William Burke, and sister Marilyn Wajert.
A memorial service will be held on Monday, September 23, at Kraeer Funeral Home located at 200 North Federal Highway, Pompano Beach. Friends and family are welcome to gather beginning at 4:00 pm for a 5:00 pm service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice by the Sea.
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