Kenneth J. Burke

Kenneth J. Burke, aged 93, passed away on August 10, 2024, after a long and rewarding life. Born to Milo and Edith (Brady) Burke on April 27, 1931, Ken was a lifelong Brockton, Massachusetts resident. Predeceased by his brothers Charles and John, and sisters Mary (Pat) Burke and Edith (Jen) Lawson, he is survived by his nephew Paul S. Burke and wife Nancy. A Coyle High School graduate in Taunton, Ken served in the US Army for three years as a clerk typist and chaplain’s assistant in Germany and France. He earned a bachelor's degree in English with a minor in Social Studies from Stonehill College in North Easton, MA, in 1958 and pursued further education at Boston College and Bridgewater State. Ken dedicated 30 years to teaching English and Language Arts at Oliver Ames High in North Easton, junior high in Medford, MA, and fourth grade in Mansfield, MA. Renowned as an exceptional teacher, he inspired his students and served as a role model. Retiring in 1984, Ken continued to meet regularly with former students until shortly before his passing. Ken spent the last few years of his life at West Acres Rehabilitation Nursing Center in Brockton, MA, Ken remained actively involved, coordinating the library's outreach program, presiding over the resident’s association, and lending his resonant voice to morning announcements and bingo calls. An enthusiastic reader, traveler, walker, and theater lover, Ken was also a member of the YMCA, the Mansfield Teacher’s Association, and the National Education Association. Ken's presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. An hour of visitation from 11:00AM - 12:00PM will be held on Tuesday August 20, 2024, followed by a funeral home service at 12:00PM at Dahlborg-MacNevin Funeral Home 280 Bedford Street Lakeville, MA 02347.  

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