Timothy Michael Burke Sr.

His Legacy… Timothy Michael Patrick Burke, 83, died on April 3rd, 2025.  He was born on January 26th, 1942, in Detroit, Michigan to the late James and Delores (Haggerty) Burke. He was the youngest of five children. Timothy married the love of his life, Sandra Ann Moxlow, on June 6th, 1964, in Grosse Ile, Michigan.  He grew up on the east side of Detroit and attended Catholic schools, where he became an accomplished multisport athlete whose academic excellence earned a prestigious scholarship and invitation to Yale.  Tim chose to attend the University of Michigan instead, and the multi-faceted professional career that followed offers a glimpse of his adventurous spirit. Tim’s illustrious titles include Betty Crocker chemist; charter boat captain (the Irish Rover); lumber salesman; owner of the Sportsmeister Shops, Great Northern Forest Products, and Paradigm Sales; patent holder; sea captain (the Pike’s Arm); and Day Trader.

Tim (aka. “the rightful heir to the throne of Ireland”) embraced his Irish heritage. He was fearless and frolicsome; his hospitality and generosity were legendary; and he was a master storyteller whose tremendous sense of humor, razor-sharp wit, flawless timing, and abundant charm never failed to spread the joy.  Tim was forever going about whistling a lively tune, and he played and sang an impressive repertoire of Irish music that always gladdened the heart. Tim passed on this beloved tradition to the next two generations of his Irish (and honorary Irish) clan, who continue to perform to this very day. 

Tim was an avid sports fan (especially faithful to his Detroit Lions, Tigers, and Red Wings) and enjoyed golfing immensely. He loved spending time with family and friends and took great delight in drawing a smile (or a laugh) from everyone he encountered. Most importantly, Tim kept the faith and finished the race, passing into eternal life in his home and surrounded by his children.

His Family… Timothy will be fiercely missed by his children, Timothy (Karen) Burke Jr. and Kelly (Dr. James) Hayner; and his remaining sister, Sharon (Chuck) Shanley.  Tim was blessed greatly by family and his indelible legacy will continue through his grandchildren: Ryan John, Brody Sager, Brendan David, Joseph Michael, Connor James, Patrick Seamus, Rylee Marie, James Rory, Katherine Rose, and Luke Rodney; and great grandson, Rowan David.

His Farewell… Tim’s family and friends will gather from 3 to 8PM (Rosary 6:00PM) on Thursday, April 10th, 2025 at Borek Jennings Funeral Home, Hamburg Chapel. His Mass of Christian Burial on Friday, April 11th, 2025 at 2PM (12:45PM Gathering and 1:30PM Family Eulogy) at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Pinckney with Fr. Dan Kogut as celebrant. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to 40 Days for Life, Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, Tunnel to Towers Foundation, or St. Mary Catholic School in Pinckney. These charities reflect Tim’s lifelong respect for life, our nation’s heroes, and Catholic education.  Please leave a message of comfort for Tim’s family at 1-877-231-7900, or sign his guestbook at www.borekjennings.com.

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