Edward Daniel Burke passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on August 4, 2026, at the age of 98.

Ed was born in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, to John and Nancy (nee La Rush) Burke. He shared 75 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Marjorie (nee Williams) Burke, until her passing in 2022.

He is lovingly survived by his children: Mary (Richard) Stephan, John (Patty) Burke, Susan (Jim) Celmer, Jim Burke, Barb Dunavant, Ed (Carrie) Burke, Laura Beine, and Nels (Mike Hanson) Burke; his son-in-law, Don Hooser; 17 grandchildren; 35 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his son, Danny Burke; his daughter, Connie Hooser (Burke); his son-in-law, Keith Dunavant; his son-in-law, Peter Beine; and his daughter-in-law, Melody Burke.

As the patriarch of a large and dynamic family, Ed worked as a printer throughout the Milwaukee area. He was happiest when he was on the move, especially on his bicycle. Whether riding around town to the local grocery store for his favorite fruit—grapes—or stopping at thrift stores and rummage sales in search of hidden treasures to repair and tinker with, he found joy in every adventure. His love of cycling also took him much farther, participating in numerous organized bike rides over the years and even riding his bicycle across the state of Wisconsin.

Ed's many hobbies reflected his endless curiosity and love of learning. He enjoyed daily reading and study of the Bible, and always seemed to have a new "toy," project, or story to share with his family. He enjoyed magnet fishing, kite flying, sewing, skiing, watching airplanes, and even flying them himself. He loved working with his hands and could often be found fixing, creating, or exploring something new.

He was a WWII Navy veteran and enjoyed his participation in the Honor Flight as a WWII vet in 2016.

His favorite traditions were just as meaningful as his hobbies. He cherished making and eating lefse as a tribute to his Norwegian heritage, visiting the reservation with family to honor his Ojibwe heritage, capturing candid photographs that became some of the family's most treasured—and conversation-worthy—memories, and cheering on the Brewers and Packers. Many evenings were happily spent watching Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune.

Ed lived a full and remarkable life, leaving behind countless memories, traditions, and lessons that will continue to be shared for generations. His love for his family, adventurous spirit, and joyful curiosity will never be forgotten. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever held in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

A private service will be held by the immediate family.

Family would like to thank the staff at Preceptor Hospice and the staff at Majestic Heights Assisted Living for the compassionate care and companionship throughout his time there.