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Richard Burke Van Valkenburg (Burke Sr.) passed away peacefully after a long battle with Alzheimer’s Disease on January 3rd in Cobourg, Ontario. He was 85. He is survived by his son Burke Jr. (Stefanie), daughter Tanya (Penny), grandchildren Taylor, Emily, Owen and Luca, great grandchild Anastasia and sister Greta. Burke Sr. was born in Toronto in 1933 and was a broadcasting pioneer who started several successful communications enterprises. Burke was warm, extremely generous and charismatic. He was well known for his letters to the editor, as well as for his lightning-fast quips and puns. His many civic activities included serving as a Warden at St. John’s Anglican Church in Harwood, providing support for the annual Bethlehem Walk, and installing sound systems at local community halls. The family would like to acknowledge the care he received from the staff at Palisade Gardens and Golden Plough Lodge in Cobourg. The family will hold a celebration of life in March 2019, date and location to be confirmed. Donations to Alzheimer Society Canada would be appreciated. Condolences can be sent to tanyavanv@klondiker.com.
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Alzheimer Society
I am sorry to hear of Burke's passing. He was so generous in volunteering for the Port Hope Jazz festival. I looked forward to seeing him each year. I particularly remember his working the sound system for our up-stairs Jazz club at the Capitol. As well, I fondly remember running into him throughout the year. One time we were each putting up posters at the Gore's Landing store for opposite politicians and had a good laugh - neither wanteing to be converted to the other's political persuasion.My sincere condolences to the family.David Acomba
Burke Jr, Tanya and Family,We are sorry for your loss and we will always remember the good times we enjoyed with Burke.Sincerely,Joanne and Randy Bird
Please accept our deepest sympathy at the passing of Burke. My friendship with Burke developed while I was with the chamber of commerce. He was always there with his offer of assistance no matter what was needed. We always loved to see him as he always had a little uplifting story or joke to brighten the day. He was a great person and will be remembered with affectionSincerelyTony and Carol Farren
ah, Burke. a life very well lived. I am better for having known him, and his amazing and supportive kids. some peace for him now. much love and support and strength to you all, Inga from Palisades.
We have fond memories of Burke. He certainly made an impression where ever he went. Burke helped out at St. Peter's and at the Cobourg Yacht Club where he introduced the first sound system so that members could finally hear announcements!We are sorry for your loss and grateful to have known this very friendly and generous man. our sincere sympathy. Liz and Dean
Our sincere condolences to the family. What a great friend who will always be remembered for enjoying a good joke and his wonderful smile.Barry and Debbie
We always enjoyed visiting with Burke at the Drope Century Farm. He was an integral part of so many events. And such a wonderful sense of humor! He will be missed. Our sincere condolences to you all.