James C. Burke

James C. Burke, age 86, a 58 year resident of Romeo, passed away on Saturday, December 12, 2009 at his home. Jim was born April 21, 1923 in Port Huron, the son of Michael and Olivia Burke. Jim graduated from St Stephen’s High School in Port Huron. He then joined the Army during WW II where he was with the 126th ordinance unit and received the Good Conduct Medal & five battle stars. Upon coming home, he attended both Eastern Michigan and Wayne State University where he received a teaching degree. At Eastern Michigan he played linebacker for the football team. Upon graduating, he started teaching industrial arts at the Romeo High School where he taught from 1955—1980. After retiring, Jim had many activities to keep him busy. He worked at the Romeo Golf Course, drove cars for the Romeo Ford Proving Grounds, looked forward to playing Santa Claus for the Highland Appliance store in Romeo where he used to fly in as Santa every year, volunteered 25 years for the Crop Walk and helped to take communion to the elderly/shut in at St Clement Catholic Church where he was a member while living in Romeo. Jim loved to golf, fish, hunt & was an accomplished wood sculpture. Jim is survived by his children: Patrick of Romeo, Don (Karen) of New Haven & Michael Scott (Diane) of Broomfield, Colorado. Grandchildren include Chance and Moriah (Matt) Dollar and Jim’s great grandchildren Leah, Jack, & Henry. His brother Jack of Southfield also survives. Jim was preceded in death by his wife Elizabeth in 1996. A memorial service will be held at a later date at St. Clement Catholic Church of Romeo. Arrangements by the Henry M. Malburg Funeral Home, Romeo, Michigan Visitation: none planned Services: to be held at a later date.