John Burke

John Michael “Bones” Burke was born in Chicago, Ill., Feb. 5,  1958, to Thomas and Lorraine Burke.
The Burke family moved to Custer, S.D., in 1972 and it quickly became “Home.”  
John loved the Hills and the community, and made many lasting friendships that he cherished. He graduated in 1976 from Custer High School.
John was going to school in Florida to become an electrician when he found out that his brother Mark was in an accident. He dropped everything to come back to Custer to be Mark’s primary care provider for 32 years. Mark’s life expectancy exceeded everyone’s expectations due to the exceptional care and love given by his brother.
John also worked during this time as a land surveyor.  John was an avid sports fan, but his true love was the Chicago Bears, Bulls, Cubs and Blackhawks. He supported his teams daily with logoed merchandise.
John had a great sense of humor and an unforgettable smirk while throwing in some puns or jokes. He had a heart of gold and taught us all what it meant to truly be there for each other.
John’s biggest pride and joy was his daughter, Michelle. His face lit up like a Christmas tree when talking about her. Although they did not discover each other until late in life, getting to know her was one of his greatest joys.
John will be greatly missed and his compassion and love for family will continue to be an example for all of us.
John passed away April 15, 2024. He was 66.
John was preceded in death by his father, Thomas Burke; mother, Lorraine Burke Beachler; sister, Joyce Satterfield; brothers, Patrick and Mark Burke;  sister-in-law, Lynette Burke; and nephew, Justin Burke.
He is survived by his daughter, Michelle Chase; son-in-law, Robert Baily of Rapid City, S.D., brother, Thomas Burke of Custer; sisters, Kathaleen (Doug) Asad of Forest, Ill., and Mary (Todd) Maiden  of Rapid City; and many nieces and nephews who love him dearly.  
Christian Funeral Vigil will be at 7 p.m., Thursday, April 25 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Custer.
Christian Funeral Mass will be at 10 a.m. Friday, April 26 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Custer, followed by Christian Funeral Committal at Custer Cemetery.
Arrangements have been placed in the care of Chamberlain McColley’s Funeral Home in Custer.