We are raising money in honor of Ulick (Uli) Burke who passed away in the early morning on Tuesday July 7th at the age of 36. He was a singular individual, a fearlessly curious mind, a wise teacher, an exceptional athlete, and a goofy and lovable man.

In his years living in Hong Kong, Taiwan, Portland, the UK, and in all his travels , he brought joy and incredible skills to our ultimate communities. He was a great player, coach, captain, and always a wonderful and hilarious teammate. 

Uli suffered from ventricular fibrillation starting Tuesday June 30th at around 8:30 am. His daughter Narumi (Nana) was with him and immediately got his wife, Yuki Itaya, who performed CPR until paramedics arrived at 8:45. His pulse did not come back with CPR and he was connected to ECMO (life support) by 9:15 and stabilized. He remained in the ICU in Kyoto, where he received expert care until his death. 

This fundraiser is to support Yuki and Nana. Their immediate needs are help with medical and funeral costs (~20,000 USD) and the ability to stay in Kyoto where Yuki has a support network and Nana has friends, but where Yuki has fewer options for work (30,000 USD goal). 

Above this 50,000 USD, our goal is to support Nana’s longer-term education and sports (she already takes after her dad).

Uli touched so many lives and even those of us who never knew “dada Uli” have the ability to make a profound impact on his family and legacy. The best gift we can give in his honor is enabling Yuki and Nana to recover and rebuild. Deepest gratitude to anything people can contribute.

Uli's Ultimate Tips:

“Layout only if you have a large audience.”

“Look for the space between your opponent’s legs.”

“I am better than you.”

“Play deep; you get the glory.”

“Be taller.”

“Sleep in until at least halftime of the first game.”

“Train less, but make up for it by talking more."

If you are in a region not supported by GoFundMe, are unable to donate now but interested in helping in the future, or have non-monetary contributions to offer, please email Wil and Tara at fundsforuli at gmail.

We (Tara and Wil) are close friends of Uli and Yuki's and have set up this fundraiser with Yuki to support their needs.