William Robert Burke, 88, of Summerfield FL passed away July 14, 2026. Bill was born September 8, 1937, in Grosse Pointe Farms, MI to Patrick and Mary Frances Burke.

    After earning his BA from Michigan State University, MA from Wayne State and serving in the US Army, he worked as a counselor and History teacher at Northview Public Schools in Grand Rapids, MI.

       Always sharply dressed, Bill was a quiet, peaceful man who played competitive tennis well into his 80's. He will be remembered as a lifeguard, baseball coach, foster dad, musical theater and folk music fan, avid reader and always having 1 or 2 dogs and cats.

    Bill was a caring father to his children Michael Burke and Patti (Kurt) VanDusen, his stepfamily, Lauri (Barry) DeLaczay, Michael, Nick, Natalie, Pat, Erin and Gavin Mayfield. He was "Papa Bill" to grandchildren Quinn, Avery and Aidan Burke and Riley and Hayden Gunderson.     

    He was preceded in death by his wife of 19 years, Susan, his brother Patrick (Barbara) Burke, and his wife of 34 years, Jean Burke. Friends and family who wish to honor Bill are encouraged to read a good mystery, have a rum n Coke, play some tennis or simply soak up the sun in his memory.