Leon Francis Burke's Obituary
Leon Burke, 77, of Fredericksburg went home to be with the Lord on Monday, March 11, 2019.
Many friends will remember Leon as the long-time maintenance manager at Frederick Place Apartments; others will remember him as their friendly janitorial supply salesman from Lawrence Sanitary Company and PBM Supplies and many local families will remember him as Coach Burke. He was a very well-respected youth coach in the Fredericksburg area for many years, he coached many different sports, football, baseball, softball and basketball, he truly enjoyed coaching and kept in touch with many of the players and their families over the years.
In addition to his wife, Bonnie Burke, he was preceded in death by his parents, Lila Mae Burke and John Reed Burke, Sr.; a sister, Shelia Cole; and a son, Anthony Burke.
Survivors include son, Frankie Burke and wife, Patty; daughter, Lori Jennings and husband, Matt; daughter, Chrissy Burke-Robinson and husband, Nate; and son, Troy Burke and longtime girlfriend, Ketki Sheth; sisters, Sharon Tabelle and husband, George and Joy Shifflette and husband, Billy; a brother, John Burke, Jr. and wife, Lois; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Leon also known as Gaga leaves behind his five beloved grandchildren, Lauren Thompson and husband, Kyle, Emily Burke, Lindsey Jennings, Carley Jennings, and Makiah Burke; and one great grandson, Kyle "KJ" Thompson. Leon also wanted to recognize close family friends, David and John Abielmona, who he has always thought of as his sons; and longtime best friend, Kyle Baber who always stood by his side throughout life.
A memorial service will be held at 12:00 p.m. Saturday, March 16, 2019 at Salem Fields Community Church, 11120 Gordon Rd, Fredericksburg, VA 22407. The family will receive visitors one hour prior to service.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the James Monroe High School athletic program, checks can be sent to Lori Jennings at 6810 Woodcock Ln, Spotsylvania, VA 22553. Leon loved coaching youth sports and all of his children and grandchildren are athletes and we would like to honor his love of coaching and support by helping to promote local athletes.
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