James L. Burke
James L. Burke, 67 a longtime resident of Scottdale and prominent Connellsville Nationwide Insurance Agent, died peacefully Sunday afternoon, April 8, 2012 in Excela Health Westmore-land Hospital, Greensburg, while being comforted by his loving family.
He was born March 29, 1945 in Mt. Pleasant, Pa., a son of the late Michael J. and Annabel (Canose) Burke, who died January 21, 1989 and September 22, 1957 respectively.
Jim was a devout Catholic and Faithful member of St. John the Baptist R.C. Church, Scottdale.
He was a Graduate of the former Scottdale High School Class of 1963. Jim was a Licensed Insurance Agent for Nationwide Insurance Co. doing business as Jim Burke, Nationwide Insurance Co. of Connellsville for 41 years.
Jim was a Viet-Nam Veteran serving during the Viet-Nam War in Germany with the U.S. Army. He was a member of the former F.O.E. Eagles of Scottdale, Polish American Club of Everson and the Scottdale V.F.W. Post No. 7781, and a member of the Connellsville Elks.
Jim was a loving Husband, Father, Grandfather and Brother to his family and a true friend to many. Jim loved to cook for his family and friends for any occasion. He was an avid Steeler Fan and enjoyed the sport of golfing.
Jim leaves his memories to be cherished by his loving and devoted wife of 42 years, Patricia A. (Jezewski) Burke, whom he married June 28, 1969; His Three loving Children: James L. Burke, Jr. and Fiance JoAnn Davis of Scottdale, Kristen A. (Burke) Felentzer and husband Brian of Scottdale and Tara R. (Burke) Ohler and husband Steve of Scottdale; His Four adoring Grandchildren: Alexis J. and Christian J. Ohler, Noah M. and Mason T. Felentzer and a Grandchild to be born on May 29; His Sister and Brothers:Lois M. Grabiak of Scottdale, John “Jack” Burke of Greensburg, Martin “Mickey” Burke and wife Florence of Scottdale, Ronald M. Burke and wife Patricia of Mt. Pleasant and a number of Nieces and Nephews.
In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his Brother William Burke (Oct. 22, 2007).
Jim’s family will greet friends in the FRANK KAPR FUNERAL HOME, INC. 417 W. Pittsburgh St. Scottdale, Wednesday from 7 to 9 p.m. and Thursday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m.
Parting Prayers will be offered in the Funeral Home Friday at 10:30 a.m. with his Funeral Mass to follow at 11 a.m. in the Church of St. John the Baptist, Scottdale, with his Pastor, Rev. E. George Saletrik as Celebrant.
Committal Services and Interment will follow in St. John Parish Cemetery, Scottdale with full Military Honors accorded at the gravesite by the Southmoreland Veterans Honor Guard.
Jim’s family suggests, in Lieu of flowers, Memorials be made to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Donor Services, P.O. Box 4072 Pittsfield, MA 01202.
St. John’s Ministry of Consolation will conduct a service Thursday at 1:45 p.m. in the Funeral Home.
To view online obituary, sign guest registry, send flowers, send an online condolence or to obtain directions, please visit www.kapr.com