June 5, 1933 - Feb. 24, 2013

ELKHART — Richard James Burke, 79, of Elkhart, passed away at 7:40 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 24, 2013, at Kindred Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

He was born June 5, 1933, in Martinsburg, N.Y., to the late William and May (Rowsam) Burke.

Richard is survived by a daughter, Leslie (Dave) Buzzard of Edwardsburg, Mich.; two sons, Richard J. Jr. (John) Burke and Scott Burke, both of Elkhart; six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; life-long friend Dave Snyder of Elkhart; and a dear friend, Laurie of Elkhart.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Jeff Clinch; and a brother, Frank Burke.

Richard worked as a truck driver for 40 years. He loved to fish and hunt, was a member of the NRA and loved to go to the casino.

The family will hold a celebration of life service at a later date.

Memorial donations may be given to the American Cancer Society.

Elkhart Cremation Services is entrusted with arrangements.

"