Charles Joseph Burke, Sr.

Charles Joseph Burke, Sr., 87, of Ware, passed away October 23, 2021 at Baystate Wing Hospital in Palmer. Charlie was surrounded by his loving family, including his beloved wife, Evelyn, who passed away just 2 days later on October 25th. For the 67 years that they were married, Charles and Evelyn were inseparable.

Born in Springfield, MA to the late Michael Burke and Christine (Brow) Groux, Charlie grew up in Springfield and had lived in Ware for the past 36 years. He served honorably in the U.S. Navy during Korea and was the recipient of 2 bronze stars for his brave service. For many years, he worked as a machinist for various local companies. A life-long member of the American Legion Post 277 in Indian Orchard, he was still active up until his passing. Most especially, he loved the time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  

He leaves to cherish his memory his children: Leon Burke and his wife Mary of Glendale, AZ; Charles Burke Jr. and his wife Barbara of South Hadley, Dennis Burke and his partner Gina Hristopouls of Agawam, Diana Adams and her fiancé Rocky Miller of Columbia, SC, Lori-Ann Richard and her husband Mark of Summerville, SC, and Barbara “Barbie” Bottums and her husband Jim of Littleton, ME; his brother: Alexis “Skip” Benoit and his wife Linda of Rockville, CT; 16 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, along with many other family members and friends. He was also predeceased by his brother, Norman Burke.

Calling hours for both Charlie and Evelyn will be held on Thursday, November 4, 2021 from 4-6pm at Nowak Funeral & Cremation Services, 15 Ludlow Ave., Springfield. Funeral services will be held on Friday, November 5, 2021 assembling at 9:30am at the funeral home and proceeding to the MA Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Agawam for committal services with military honors at 11am. For more information, or to sign the online guest book, please visit www.nowakfuneral.com.

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