William J. Burke (Jr.)

Bill was born June 28, 1943, in Elizabeth, New Jersey to William James Burke and Jean Condon Burke.

He attended St. Catherine School where he formed a group of lifelong friends, including Father Patrick McDonnell who will celebrate Bill’s funeral mass.

He graduated from St. Mary of the Assumption High School and went on to Seton Hall University earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Finance.

Fascinated with Wall Street since boyhood, Bill’s 50+ year career with financial institutions included positions at Chase Securities, Smith Barney, and UBS. His areas of expertise included institutional bond sales and wealth management advisory.

A born urbanite, at sixteen Bill subscribed to The New York Times and The New Yorker magazine. Shortly after college he moved to New York City where he frequented museums, art galleries, jazz clubs, and The Metropolitan Opera. While living in New York, Bill volunteered at Mt. Sinai Hospital where he was recognized as the Outstanding Volunteer of the Year from a pool of more than 800 fellow volunteers.

Bill loved England, both New and old. He frequently visited historical sites in Vermont, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts. An avid swimmer, he loved the beaches of Cape Cod.

Bill made 19 trips to England savoring London’s rich history, architecture, and exceptional haberdashery. He loved fine tailoring as evidenced by his extensive collection of British made suits, shirts, and shoes. Bill would also spend part of each trip exploring the English countryside’s antique shops and inns. While in Britain, he made several trips across the Irish Sea establishing ties with Irish relatives previously unknown. He remained in touch with them throughout his remaining years.

Bill was much loved. He was a kind and thoughtful cousin, friend, and colleague. He was a devoted son and generous brother to his sisters Michele Burke and Elaine Burke who survive him. His counsel and humor will be sorely missed.

Bill died at his current residence in Morris Township, New Jersey on June 27th. In his memory, please consider donating to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center at give.mskcc.org.