Tributes
David Lee Burke, 62, of Union, KY, passed away after a hard-fought battle with cancer on Monday, February 17, 2025, at his residence, surrounded by his loving family.
David was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend who lived life to the fullest. After 27 years of dedicated service, he retired from the maintenance department at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky (TMMK). In addition to his career, David was a passionate coach who mentored and inspired young athletes in both football and wrestling.
David had an adventurous spirit who enjoyed motorcycle riding, traveling, hunting, and spending time with friends and loved ones. His love for music and bourbon were well known, and he had an infectious enthusiasm for life. He loved watching his favorite cult comedy classic movies (and getting everyone else roped in on them), sharing funny stories with anyone who would listen, and doing the little things to make his loved ones – especially his wife, “Debbie Joan Burke” as he would exclusively call her – feel cared for and protected. Some called it adventure; he called it life.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Johnny and Alice Delores Burke and his brother, Darrell Burke.
David is survived by his loving wife, Debbie Burke; children: Chrissy (Matt) Black, Austin Burke (Niki Whiteker), Savannah Burke, Stephen Cummings, Johnny Burke (Bailey Armour), and Sean Cummings; 6 grandchildren; siblings: Johnny Burke, Randy (Beverly) Burke, Pam (Glen) Craddock and Alice Burke; mother-in-law, Donna Kaufman; brother-in-law, Michael (Carol) Pollard; as well as several nieces and nephews.
A memorial visitation will be held on Friday, February 28, 2025, from 3:00 PM until the time of memorial service, 5:00 PM, at Linnemann Family Funeral Homes and Cremation Center, 1940 Burlington Pike, Burlington, KY 41005. The family will host a Celebration of Life at The American Legion at 8385 U.S. Highway 42, Florence, KY 41042 immediately following the memorial service.
Memorial contributions are suggested to The American Lung Association.
Online condolences can be made at www.linnemannfuneralhomes.com
Linnemann Funeral Homes Burlington
1940 Burlington PikeBURLINGTON KY 41005
Linnemann Funeral Homes Burlington
1940 Burlington PikeBURLINGTON KY 41005
David Lee Burke
Address: ,David Lee Burke
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My Brother
My Brother David was a good man, a good husband and a good father. He was intelligent, funny, kind and generous. I still remember him as the 6 year old ring bearer at my wedding. Rest in peace Brother!
My Bourbon Brother
I will miss our shenanigans at “the creek” and the stories (lies) we would tell. We have known you for a long time , but not long enough. I recall you telling me some years ago, that you had two great kids and another one ( We will let them figure it out) ! Our heart goes out to the Burke family and extended family. His cerebral humor was only surpassed by his kindness. You will be missed my friend. ( Tell Duke hello) .
In loving memory of David
I was deeply saddened to hear of David’s passing. While my time spent with him was limited, mostly at Lingard Family reunions, those moments left a lasting impression on me. David always made a point to make the extra effort to attend, and I will always cherish the great conversations we shared during those gatherings.
His unassuming and kind nature made him someone I was truly fond of, and his presence will be deeply missed. My heartfelt condolences go out to Debbie and the entire family during this difficult time. May the memories of David bring you comfort and peace.
David Burke
Debby and family my deepest condolences. David was such a great friend in high school and later in life when we became friends again on Facebook. He never judge me and was a very kind man. Rest In Peace . You will be missed.
Forever…
That feeling I got in my stomach when I could no longer hear you breathing,
It’s like all the butterflies had died.
I will miss our chats about
Debbie and how much you love her. The love you have for her… is the reason I loved you. I love her to the moon and back, and you gave her your all.
You will always be the brother I never had. My heart hurts…
