Obituary of John F. "Jocko" Burke

John F. “Jocko” Burke PEABODY—John F. “Jocko” Burke, 63, beloved husband of Ellen, died peacefully early Tuesday morning November 4, 2014 at the Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston with his loving family holding his hands. Born in Salem, he was the son of the late Walter E. and Marie (Nelson) Burke. He grew up in Peabody and graduated from Peabody High School. Jocko, as he was affectionately known, was a member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians (A.O.H.) and the Italian-American Citizens Club both in Peabody. He was passionate about cooking, enjoyed skiing, gardening, and was an avid Patriots and Nascar fan. He had an extensive collection of hot sauces from around the world that he loved to share with his family and friends. He is survived by his wife Ellen (O’Donnell) Burke of Peabody, with whom he shared 26 years of marriage; a son Matthew White of Peabody; two brothers Nelson Burke & his wife Joanne of Peabody and Walter E., Jr. & his wife Linda of Peabody and Florida; a sister Jeannette Burke of Austin, TX, a brother-in-law Charles O'Donnell & his wife Kathy of Salem, and several nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to gather on Saturday November 8, 2014 at 8 AM from the Conway, Cahill-Brodeur Funeral Home, 82 Lynn St., Peabody, followed by a Funeral Mass at 9 AM in St. John the Baptist Church, Peabody. A visitation will be held on Friday from 4 – 8 P.M. in the funeral home. Burial in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Salem.