William Burke, nature enthusiast

William "Brian" Burke went to heaven Sunday, April 20, 2025. Born Jan. 13, 1958, to Nancy K. and William A. Burke of Pasadena, Md., Brian spent his youth in Anne Arundel County before moving to the Frederick area and later retiring to Delaware.

He is survived by his father, William A. Burke of Pasadena, Md.; his son, Chuck and wife Jess Burke of New Tazwell, Tenn.; his sister, Nancy and husband Mark Benny of Milton; his aunts, Jane Hart of Atlantic Beach, Fla., and Lynn and Stephen Holmes of Bel Air, Md.; his niece, Sarah and husband Tyson Morelock of Hanover, Pa.; his nephew, Joseph Benny of Orlando, Fla.; his good friend and caretaker, Steve Sandoe; and his faithful companion and service dog, Sarge (aka "The Mayor of Broadkill").

Brian had a true appreciation for animals and nature. He was happiest camping in a tent with his dogs in the "mountains" of Frederick and Washington counties. Kayaking with his Washington County Kayaking group throughout the western Maryland area brought him immense joy. Brian was very devoted to his mother and acted as her caretaker later in her life.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Brian's name be made to the American Diabetes Association, diabetes.org.

Services are in the care of Short Funeral Services of Milton.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at shortfuneralservicesandcremation.com/obituaries/william-burke.