With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of David Chester Burke, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and esteemed member of the community. Born in Amery, WI, on March 24, 1940, David lived a life of purpose and dedication, leaving a legacy that will forever be cherished.

Dave, an esteemed graduate of the FBI Academy and proud National Guard veteran, served his country with honor during the Cuban Crisis. His commitment to service extended into his civilian life, where he started in St. Croix County as a Sheriff’s deputy in 1960. He was with the New Richmond police department from 1961 until 1962. He joined the Hudson Police Department in 1962 until his retirement in 1990. During this tenure he served as the respected Chief of Police of Hudson from 1970 until 1990. He was also actively involved in numerous organizations, including the International Association of Chiefs of Police, Hudson Rotary, Minnesota -Washington County & Stillwater law enforcement officer hiring. Church associations Redeemer Lutheran in Burkhardt and Lakeside Lutheran in Webb Lake.

Throughout his life, Dave found solace in the simplicity of nature, often spending his leisure time hunting in Danbury and fishing on Loon Lake. His adventurous spirit led him to explore all 50 states, creating lasting memories along the way. He was also very proud of the (2) High Gun awards he won for trap shooting at the St.Croix Valley Rod & Gun Club in 1975 & 1977.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Dave embarked on a personal journey of recovery, celebrating 42 years of sobriety through AA. His strength and resilience inspired all those who knew him, leaving an indelible impact on those around him.

David’s dedication to his family, community, and country will forever be remembered and cherished. In his passing, he leaves behind a profound legacy of service, strength, and love that will continue to inspire all who knew him. May his soul find eternal rest, and may his memory live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.

Dave’s memory will be forever cherished by his; devoted wife of 62 years, Barbara Burke; sons Al (Barb) Burke and Kevin (Jodi) Burke; grandsons Andrew (Casey) Burke, Steven (Isabella) Burke, and Benjamin Reardon; plus 5 great grandchildren and many extended relatives and friends. Through their grief, they find comfort in the knowledge that Dave has found peace.

David was preceded in death by his; parents Chester and Viola Burke; brother LuVerne Burke; sisters Betty Gabriel, and Mary Crawley

A memorial service will be held at O’Connell Funeral Home in Hudson on September 26th, 2024 at 5:00pm, with a visitation before from 3:00-5:00pm where family, friends, and community members are invited to pay their respects and honor his memory. Following the service, Dave will be honored by the Military for his call to action, then buried at Willow River Cemetery in Hudson.

Memorials preferred to-

Wounded Warrior Project https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org/Default.aspx?tsid=11585&ovr_acv_id=16821&campaignSource=ONLINE&source=BS24001AAABREAA&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwxY-3BhAuEiwAu7Y6s9GsMZTZuZczX9aYeIRVqDCZBF9cuElWhfwos0dgG2-9EI6xGhPtWxoC5DMQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

Christian Community Homes (much needed workout equipment for the residence) https://cchsseniorliving.org/foundation

Hudson Police Department scholarship program https://www.hudsonwi.gov/185/Programs

Services have been entrusted to O’Connell Family Funeral Homes – Hudson