Michael Christopher Burke

Obituary

Michael Christopher Burke, a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend, peacefully passed away with family at his side on August 3, 2025, at the age of 55, after a courageous three year battle with cancer while vacationing in Bangor, Maine. He fought tirelessly through every challenge and setback, pushing forward with more determination than most could ever imagine. Mike chose to live life on his own terms and kept moving forward until his body simply could not keep up with his incredible spirit and love of life.

Michael was born on June 5, 1970, in New Hartford, New York, and was a cherished son of Theodore and Ann Burke, both of whom predeceased him. His family deeply mourns his loss, including his siblings: Rick (Nancy) Burke, Kathy (Jack) Moore, Theodore Burke, and Daniel (Stephanie) Burke. He was a proud uncle to his nieces and nephews: Tiffany Burke, Ryan Burke, Shannon Moore, Connor (Taylor) Moore, Jack Moore, Dylan Burke, and Avery Burke. Michael was also a beloved nephew to his aunts, Ellen Haug of Fort Myers, Florida and Demis Washburn of Marcy, New York, and he enjoyed close relationships with many cousins and friends throughout his life. He was predeceased by his uncle, David Washburn of Marcy, New York and aunt, Eileen Wolcott of Camden, New York, as well as, the Gerow brothers of his dad.  

Michael grew up in Blossvale, NY and graduated from Vernon Verona Sherrill High School in 1988. He earned an associate degree from Champlain College in VT and a Bachelor of Arts degree in broadcast and media production from SUNY Oswego. His career as an award-winning videographer and editor took him to various places, including News Channel 2 of Utica, NY, News Channel 9 of Syracuse, NY, and Voice of America in Washington DC, where he made significant contributions to the field of journalism covering stories around the world.

Beyond his professional achievements, Michael was passionate about music, attending concerts and festivals, photography, and was an avid sports fan of baseball, golf, and football. He had a deep love for the outdoors that included fishing, biking, hiking, snowmobiling, and boating with family and friends. Michael was known for his calm, supportive nature, as well as, his ability to show empathy and bring joy to those around him.

In recent years, Michael dedicated his time to community service, particularly with Relay for Life, where he worked to support cancer research and raise awareness. His commitment to this cause was a testament to his compassionate heart and the love he carried for those affected by cancer. His family expresses their profound gratitude to the doctors and staff at Upstate Cancer Center, Hematology - Oncology Associates of CNY and the Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center who provided exceptional care in his final days.

Michael leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and the belief in the power of community. He touched the lives of many, and his absence will be felt by all who knew him. Wherever Mike went, he made life-long friends and above all, Mike was deeply devoted to his family. His unwavering love for his parents, siblings, nieces and nephews and his role as “Uncle Mike” will live on in our hearts forever.

A private family funeral service will be held to honor his memory. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the American Cancer Society or The 21 Club of CNY, two causes that were close to Michael’s heart. Family and friends are welcome to attend a ‘Celebration of Life’ to honor Michael and his extraordinary journey on Saturday, October 11th from 12-4 pm at Harpoon Eddies in Sylvan Beach, NY.

As we remember Michael Christopher Burke, we celebrate a life well-lived, filled with music, adventure, and the warmth of family and friendship. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered in our hearts.

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Memory wall

October 11, 2025

Burkey, I’ll always cherish the memories we made and the friendship we formed from our time together at Ch.9. You sure were one of if kind and you will forever be missed. Thank you for being you. That Blue Light bucket will always sit on my bar in your honor and make me smile. ❤️

Meagan Kestler

August 31, 2025

From Liz

Kathleen Moore

August 31, 2025

I met Mike at Sylvan beach in the mid 80s as a teen. We became good friends and stayed in touch on and off for the past 40 years. Seriously one of the nicest most caring people I've had the pleasure and honor of knowing. He will be missed. The world needs more people like him.

Jeremy macri

August 27, 2025

Mike was my work “partner in crime.” We traveled the world in search of stories, and I always knew he had my back. He was the definition of a true professional and worked tirelessly until the story was just right. Some of my best work memories were with Mike. He was an amazing human, and he made me a better journalist and a better friend. We bonded over college basketball and a mutual hatred of the military’s “hurry up and wait” scheduling. Once we got to where we needed to be, I could trust he’d instinctively get all the right shots and sounds. We interviewed 4-star generals and international superstars together. We traveled from the Mediterranean Sea to the Arctic Circle. We climbed down missile silos and landed on aircraft carriers. The world saw wars and war machines from the Middle East to Europe through his lens.
He kept upbeat through chemo. He always loved his family and sent love to mine. What a terrible loss to the world. We love you and miss you, Mike. Rest in peace.

Carla Babb

August 20, 2025

“Burke” has been a close friend of mine since being one of the first people I met entering Champlain College in ‘88.
I will cherish our friendship forever remembering him as the beautiful, caring, loyal soul he was and is!
I selfishly Thank you for giving us 3 additional years with your fight! You gave so much!
Rest now my good friend, till we meet again.
Michele

Michele Morris

August 17, 2025

RIP MY FRIEND

KC VanBrocklin

August 11, 2025

I still hear your voice- you knew I hated texting so you would call me because I loved to hear you and speak with you. I love you dear friend and I know you are at a peace beyond our understanding ❤️you was the last text I sent to him- short and sweet- wanting him to know I was there

Annelise Tungvaag

Family tree

Other family members

Stephanie Burke
Sister-In-Law

Dylan Burke
Nephew

Avery Burke
Niece

Nancy Burke
Sister-In-Law

Tiffany Burke
Niece

Ryan Burke
Nephew

Full name

Jack Moore
Brother in law

Shannon Moore
Niece

Connor Moore
Nephew

Taylor Converse Moore
Niece in law

Jack M. Moore
Nephew

Willow
Loyal Pal

“What you talking bout Willy?”

Theodore W. Burke, Sr.

Ann Washburn-Burke

William James Burke (Rick)

Kathleen Ann Burke (Kathy)

Theodore William Burke, Jr. (Ted)

Daniel Joseph Burke (Dan)

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William James Burke (Rick)

Kathleen Ann Burke (Kathy)

Theodore William Burke, Jr. (Ted)

Daniel Joseph Burke (Dan)

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Michael Burke

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