Former garda sergeant from Louth with a 'heart of gold' has passed away

A former garda sergeant from Louth has passed away.

William Burke of Seafield Lawns, Avenue Road, Dundalk and formerly of Abbeyknockmoy Co. Galway passed away peacefully in Silver Stream, Dundalk Care Centre on February 7, 2024.

Mr Burke, “one of life's characters always up for the craic, a true gentleman”, has been remembered fondly online and condolences have poured in from the local community, former work colleagues, neighbours and friends. 

A former garda sergeant, Mr Burke is described as being “popular and highly regarded” in his job. He also had a background in rugby and was a member of the management team. 

“Deepest sympathy to the Burke family on the sad passing of Bill. Fond memories of some great rugby days in our youth with Bill & the late Sean McCabe. They were a formidable management team,” one person wrote.

Another said: “I worked with him (Mr Burke) for many years. Bill was a man ahead of his time - a born leader, with an exceptional vision. He was a jovial character who had a great sense of humour. I admired him for the empathetic way he dealt with people and their problems. He had a heart of gold.”

Also described fondly as a “close and valued friend” by many, Mr Burke was well-known and well-liked in the community. Many recall memories of over fifty years.

“Mary & Bill opened their home and lives to all of Marie’s friends in our teenage years and I have the fondest memories of the warm laughter, music and love within the rooms of Seafield Lawns. Our thoughts & prayers are with you all,” one person recalled.

Another said: “Bill was ever present throughout my childhood and beyond, who's larger than life character and raucous sense of humour will live long in my memories of life growing up around the Burke family.”

Mr Burke was the much loved husband of Mary, father of Bobby, David, Marie, Karen, Michael, John and Alan, loving grandad of Matthew, Ben, William, Rebecca, Aoife, Thomas, Mary-Kate, Oran, Rían, Jack, Ciara and Eabhá, and brother of Mary, P.J, Miley, Kathleen, and Vincent and the John, Julia and Peggy. 

Mr Burke will be reposing at his home from 2pm until 8pm this Friday, February 9. Removal will take place this Saturday, February 10, to Church of the Holy Family arriving for Mass at 11am. Burial afterwards in St. Fursey's Cemetery, Haggardstown.