It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of David Burke on March 17, 2024, at the age of 54.
He was a devoted husband to Anna (Tonin), his partner in life, whom he spent a precious 37 years together, 25 married. His legacy endures through his beloved children, Jack, Grace, and Liam, each shaped by his love and guidance. Despite seemingly too little time on this earth, David lived a life with unparalleled passion and purpose. His love for his family knew no bounds and he cherished every moment spent in their company. David held immense pride in every person within his life. Each day he showcased what it meant to be a father, husband, brother, uncle and friend.
A pillar of strength within his family, he constantly offered loving advice, affection and assistance to those closest to him. Born on April 5, 1969, in Guelph to Dave Sr. (2000) and Marlene (2002). Big brother to siblings, Shawn (Lauren) and Ashlee (2011). Their influence helped shape him into the person he grew to be. He was a caring uncle to his nieces and nephews Cole, Sydney, Nadia and Jorgia. A heartfelt gratitude is extended to the Tonin family, in-laws Arcangelo (2016) and Rita (2021), sibling-in-laws David (Heidi), Barbara (Paul), Susan (Karen) and Marco (Leslie), and all the Tonin nieces and nephews whose warm embrace David valued deeply. He leaves many friends and family with the unwavering knowledge of what it means to live life to the fullest. David was a social soul who took on many passions.
He attended Wilfred Laurier University. While there, David played varsity hockey where he fostered lifelong friendships and created experiences so fond, he never grew tired of retelling. After graduating, he took his knowledge into both his professional and personal life. David was an entrepreneur, carrying forward the legacy of his father’s business, Everything Automotive by Houghton. His strong work ethic, integrity and unwavering commitment upheld the values upon which the business was built and has grown into over the last 50 years. Beyond professional accomplishments, David loved athletics. His passion for hockey ran true as a teammate and coach motivating many to become better athletes and people. He shared his love for golf with others as a member of the Cutten Fields in Guelph.
The social connections he had through sports cultivated friendships that lasted a lifetime. At the forefront, David always noted his greatest accomplishments were in his relationships. His love for his wife and children were truly his whole world. David cherished the little things in life, whether that be telling jokes (that weren’t always funny), sharing stories or watching TV with his family before bed. These moments defined David’s essence and are what those closest to David will always remember. What David leaves us with is not a life unlived. His spirit will be within those closest around him, his memory forever present in the stories they tell and the lives they lead. “Measure life not by its length, but by how much one is loved”. Your presence we miss, your memory we treasure.
Resting at Gilbert MacIntyre and Son Funeral Home, Hart Chapel, 1099 Gordon St., Guelph, on Monday, March 25th, 2024, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be held at Holy Rosary Church, 175 Emma Street, Guelph, on Tuesday, March 26, 2024 at 10:30 a.m.
As expressions of sympathy, donations to Heart and Stroke Foundation, Canadian Cancer Society, or Charity of one’s choice would be appreciated by the family.