Michael William Burke

Michael William Burke, age 74, of Port Clinton, Ohio, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, November 20, 2024. He was born on August 28, 1950, in Toledo, to Charles Patrick and Jaquline Rose (Weise) Burke.

Mike was a proud 1969 graduate of Waite High School, and shortly after, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he served honorably from 1969 until his discharge in 1972 as an E-5 Staff Sergeant. Following his military service, Mike built a successful career in both insurance sales and construction. He was always seen in a sharp shirt and tie, dedicated to providing for his family.

Mike found joy in many things. He loved spending time on Lake Erie in his boat and had a special fondness for the snow in Minnesota. He relished meals with his loved ones, particularly enjoying perch, walleye, and the hearty “hobo dinners” – big pots of stew that brought his family together. A fan of action movies, Mike was an avid follower of Walker, Texas Ranger and anything starring Chuck Norris. He also enjoyed family card games, though his competitive spirit often led him to wear a hat that read, “I Hate This Game” when the tables were not in his favor.

Mike had a remarkable sense of direction—his family joked that if you placed him in the middle of the desert, he would still find his way home. A skilled handyman, Mike was always ready to lend a hand and share his knowledge.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, his loving wife Cheryl Ann Burke, and his brother, Chuck Burke. He is survived by his children, Ken (Karen) Burke, Ron (Lexi) Burke, Justin (Mandy) Burke, and Crystal (Mike) Gallagher, along with six grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and siblings, Daniel Burke, Debbie Edmonson, and Kathleen Ruiz.

A celebration Mike’s life will be held on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at 10:00 am at 1832 Middleton Pike, Luckey, Ohio 43443. For those wishing to honor his memory, the family requests that donations be made to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.