James Burke

James F. Burke, age 93, formerly of Lake Katrine, died Feb. 13, 2012 with his family at his side. Loving husband of the late Helen and cherished father of Kathleen Burke, Esq., and her husband Jim Teeple, James, Sheila, Elizabeth Conley and her husband Dr. Michael Conley, and Dr. Barbara Burke and her husband, Dr. Daniel Dietzman. Adored grandfather of Brian, Dennis, and Justin Conley, Kelly and Nicolette Burke, Nicolas and Lola Dietzman. Born in Buffalo on Feb 26, 1918, he is the last of his generation. He was a high school drum major and an Eagle Scout. James attended Buffalo State College and Syracuse University. A WW II veteran, he attained the final rank of Captain in the US Army. James worked as an educator and for many years, a Principal in the Hicksville School District. He was the first President of the NYS Reading Association. Mr.Burke continued to be active in retirement, serving as Lector for his church. He was deeply loved and will be greatly missed. Reposing at the Simpson-Gaus Funeral Home, 411 Albany Ave. on Friday, from 3-5 and 7-9 PM. The funeral procession will form on Saturday from the funeral home at 9:15 AM. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 at St. Joseph's Church. Entombment, with military honors by Joyce-Schirick Post 1386 Color Guard, will be in Wiltwyck Community Mausoleum.