Obituary of Margaret H. Burke

Margaret H. ("Peggy") Burke, of Syracuse, died peacefully in her home on September 10, 2015. She was surrounded by her family. Peggy was the daughter of Patrick J. and Marion O. Hartnett. She was the youngest of six siblings who grew up on Merriman Ave; where she experienced many fond childhood memories. Peggy was a proud graduate of St. Lucy's Academy. It was through St. Lucy's that she would meet her future husband, Jack. Jack and Peggy Burke were married on September 18, 1948. The two of them would raise a family of six children. She was a devoted mother. She approached life with a genuine optimism and quiet sense of dignity that had a profound influence on her family and friends. Sunday and holiday dinners, with plenty of pie and banana bread for everyone, were especially enjoyable. Along with her husband, Peggy was one of the founding members of St. Ann's Church. She volunteered her time to the Church, charitable organizations and was particularly active at Community General Hospital. She was a member of Bellevue Country Club and enjoyed golf, bridge and bowling. Throughout her life Peggy was blessed with a wonderful group of friends. Peggy was predeceased by her husband, Jack Burke, her parents and siblings. She is survived by her children, Jack (Claire) Burke, Patti (Tim) McNamara, Jim (Sarah) Burke, Michael (Missy) Burke, Peggy (Lou) Burke-Frio, Kathy (Kevin) Barry and seventeen grandchildren, "Grandma's Army"; Bryan, Shane, Jess, Shannon, Shawn, Jacqui, Danny, Caitlin, Mary Kate, David, Tessa, Maddie, Natalie, Melissa, Jessie, Michael, Seamus, Liam and Colleen. Services will be held at 10:00AM on Tuesday, September 15, 2015 at St. Ann's Church, Syracuse, NY. Calling hours will be 4:00PM to 7:00PM on Monday, September 14, 2015 at Edward J. Ryan & Son Funeral Home, 3180 Bellevue Ave, Syracuse, NY. Burial will be in St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery in DeWitt. The Burke family would like to thank the employees of Comfort Keepers, especially her aides, for the care and assistance they provided Peggy for the last two years. Knowing that she was cared for provided great peace of mind to all our family. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to St. Charles - St. Ann's Church, 4471 Onondaga Blvd., Syracuse, NY 13219.