BURKE, RUSSELL EDWARD (ED)
June 23, 1921 to August 1, 2008
We are sorry to announce the unexpected passing of Russell Edward (Ed) Burke on August 1, 2008 at the age of 87 years. We are thankful that he was surrounded by his family in his final moments. Left to mourn his passing are his wife Edna, children Sandra Burke (Gary Moran), Larry (Linda) Burke, Brenda (Jim) Provost; grandchildren Julie Provost (Kevin), Quinn Provost, Jared (Heather) Provost, Shane Burke (Bridget), and Robyn (Jamie) Burke and great-grandchildren Jade and Hunter Burke. Also survived by sister Margaret (Dick) Mellor, little brother Bill (Grace) Burke, brother-in-law Orville (Elva) Shaw and their respective families. Predeceased by sister Mary.
Ed was born in Minitonas, Manitoba. He grew up and took all of his schooling in Brandon, Manitoba. In 1941, he joined the RCAF as a wireless operator/air gunner. He flew on Vancouver Island at Ucluelet and was promoted to Flying Officer. He also flew Coastal Command on the East Coast until the end of the war.
After serving in WWII, he was introduced to Edna Mae Shaw on a blind date by their closest friends, Margaret and Fred Tegg (recently deceased). Ed and Edna "Double EE Burke" married on March 26, 1949 and had 59 wonderful years together.
He was plant manager for Pioneer Electric and loved to curl and golf in his spare time. An active member of Central (St. Paul's) United Church, Ed was also a Mason and Shriner. His pride and joy was becoming a piper in the Brandon and District Shrine Pipes and Drums.
After raising his own family in Brandon, Ed and Edna retired to Abbotsford in 1991 and later moved to Ladner in 2002 to be closer to their grandchildren. Ed will be remembered for his love for family and friends, who will sorely miss him.
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate any donations being directed to the Delta Hospital Foundation, 5800 Mountain View Blvd., Delta, BC - V4K 9Z9
A celebration of Ed's life will be held at 1:30 pm on Thursday, August 7, 2008 at the Delta Funeral Home, 5329 Ladner Trunk Road in Ladner, BC. Reception to follow.
On line condolences at www.deltafuneral.ca
Delta Funeral Home
604.946.6040