Mikey, You’re Forever in our Hearts

On Sunday, August 14th, our family and community lost a husband, a father, a brother, a son, and a dear friend in Michael (Mikey) J. Burke. Mikey lost a difficult and painful battle to cancer. Diagnosed in November 2021, Mikey started aggressive treatment, only to suffer a bowel obstruction a few months later. After that, Mikey spent weeks at a time in hospital, undergoing life-saving surgeries and fighting for his life. In April, his family and care team understood that treatment was no longer possible, and the best we could do was make him comfortable. Mikey spent the last few months of his beautiful life at his home, surrounded by his loving wife, family, and lifelong friends. To the end, Mikey kept his gentle nature, strength, and infectious sense of humor. Without a doubt, to know Mikey was to love him. His loss will be felt across the community and to all who knew him.

Mikey spent most of his 59 years in Eugene, Oregon, where he made lifelong friends, met his beautiful wife (my mom), Louise Burke, and raised his two stepdaughters as if we were his own. His legacy is one of friendship, adventure, generosity, kindness, and courage.

To honor his legacy and ensure that his wife of almost thirty years and his large circle of loved ones can heal and grieve his loss unencumbered by the financial burden of his passing, I am graciously asking for donations of any amount, if you find yourself willing and able to give.

The funds will be used for his cremation and service costs, outstanding medical bills, with anything left over going to my mom to help her cover mortgage, bills, and other expenses.

Mikey, you'll never be forgotten and you're so loved.