John W. Burke

John W. “Jack” Burke, 61, of St. Johns, passed away early Monday morning at his home following a two-year illness.

Born in Hazleton, October 7, 1956, he was the son of the late James William Burke and Nancy Louise Schmeer, and spent the past four years in St. Johns after moving from Drifton.

Jack served in the US Army from 1974-1979 as an infantryman and radio operator.  He was a Green Beret, Black Beret Special Forces Armed Paratrooper and attained the rank of Sergeant.  He was employed as a sheet metal mechanic at Tobyhanna Army Depot.  He was an avid Philadelphia sports fan of both the Eagles and Phillies.

Surviving are his wife of the past 36 1/2 years, the former Jane Sieverski; two sons Adam, St. Johns; and Brandon, Drifton; two grandchildren Karleigh and Michael Burke; a sister Diane Johnson and her husband Leland, Glen Burnie, MD; a brother James W. Burke, Wind Gap; and two nephews.

Services with military honors will be held privately at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to Disabled American Veterans, PO Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH 45250-0301.

Harman Funeral Homes & Crematory Inc. (East) 669 W. Butler Drive, Drums is assisting the family with the arrangements.  Online condolences can be entered and more information is available at www.harmanfuneral.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John W. Burke, please visit our floral store.