John E. Burlowski

John E. Burlowski, age 74, passed away peacefully on Easter, April 20, 2025, at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Edgewood, Kentucky.

John was born on February 1st, 1951, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where he attended St. John’s Cathedral High School. John was a proud graduate of the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in Economics and Political Science. He went on to have a long and respected career in the banking industry, serving most recently as Vice President of Regulatory and Trust Services at Fifth Third Bank, Cincinnati, Ohio, in the years prior his retirement. Colleagues remember him as a joy to work with—someone who brought levity and purpose to the workplace with his dry wit, level-headedness, and thoughtful leadership.

John met the love of his life, Joan Sampson, in Minneapolis, MN. The two shared a strong bond built on negotiation, humor, and mutual respect, and were married for 40 lovely years.

A man of great intelligence and curiosity, John was a MENSA scholar who never stopped exploring the world around him. He had a lifelong love of reading and learning. Later in life, he developed a passion for photography and the arts. He surprised friends by learning to play the Blues harmonica from a well-known instructor and shared his love of the Blues music with those around him. He embraced living in Kentucky through his involvement with the 1789b Bourbon group where he enjoyed friendships from across the world.

John was deeply generous and known for being an exceptional gift-giver, taking great care to understand the people in his life. He grounded those around him with his calm wisdom and gentle spirit, always knowing what to do in a crisis. Above all, his friends describe him as a loyal friend and a true gentleman.

He faced numerous health challenges throughout his life with quiet strength and dignity, and more recently was challenged by Progressive Supranuclear Palsy.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Rosella Burlowski, and his brother, Tom Burlowski.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Joan Sampson Burlowski, sister-in-law, Goldie Burlowski, nephew Tim (Jeannie) Burlowski great-nephew, Matthew Burlowski, great-niece, Elise Burlowski. He has many Burlowski family cousins, whom he has held dear since childhood.

A large Sampson family of brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law also survive him along with their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. In addition, he had many amazing friends who brought great joy and humor to his life.

Private gatherings to honor John’s life will be held at the convenience of the family and friends. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Stray Animal Adoption Program (SAAP) 859-391-1234

To share a memory or leave an online condolence, please visit: www.linnemannfuneralhomes.com