America's Largest Catholic Newspaper
Deacon Eugene Burke, who served for 46 years at St. Gabriel parish in the Bronx and was a member of the first class of permanent deacons ordained for the archdiocese, died Jan. 28. He was 93.
Deacon Burke, who was ordained in 1973, had served at St. Gabriel’s until his death. He was engaged in the parish’s sacramental and liturgical life, performing baptisms and witnessing weddings. He visited the homebound and individuals in nursing homes.
He was an advertising and public relations executive. As an actor and comedian, he shared the stage and screen with stars such as Tony Perkins, David Letterman and Conan O’Brien.
Born in Jersey City, N.J., he received a bachelor’s degree from Seton Hall University, South Orange, N.J., and master’s from Manhattan College and Lehman College, both in the Bronx.
Survivors include his wife, Madeleine, their children Paul Burke, Marlene Barrett and Christopher Burke, and four grandchildren.
A Funeral Mass was celebrated Feb. 2 at St. Gabriel’s. Burial was in St. Raymond’s Cemetery, the Bronx.
