After a long and tenacious fight with Parkinson’s and Dementia, Burke passed away peacefully on May 5, 2020 in Victoria, BC.
Burke will be greatly missed by his loving wife Arlene and their sons; Brennan (Marie-Eve), Justin (Stephanie) and Devin (Amanda). He was a doting Grandpa Burke to Olivia, Sophie, Audie, Willa and Sully. He will also be lovingly remembered by his brothers and sisters; Lynda (Brian), Elaine (Ray), Mona (George), Phil (Barbara), Sean (Cindy); sister-in-law Sandra and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and wonderful friends.
Burke was predeceased by his parents Ernie and Mary Blanchfield, as well as his brother Dick.
A talented Research Assistant, Burke enjoyed a wonderful 37-year career in the Food and Drug Division of Health Canada in Ottawa. Affectionately nicknamed “Tigger” by his co-workers due to his energetic demeanour and general enthusiasm for life, his smile and laugh could light up any room. Naturally selfless and thoughtful of others, he was always more interested in your story than his own. Well-known for his love of the “beautiful game”, he used soccer to mentor countless youth in the values of sport and athleticism.
Recently, he and Arlene re-located to Victoria, to be closer to their family. Here, Burke received great care and compassion from the staff at the Kiwanis Pavilion, the Adult Day Program at Sunset Lodge, the Comfort Keepers of Victoria and Neuromotion Physiotherapy.
Cremation has taken place, and a Celebration of Life will take place at a later date in Ottawa. The family would also like to express their sincere thanks for all of the thoughtful phone calls, emails and cards during this difficult time. Those wishing may make donations in Memory of Burke to the Parkinson Society of Canada https://www.parkinson.ca/ or the Alzheimer Society of Canada https://alzheimer.ca/en/Home/Get-involved/Ways-to-donate.
“Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, Love leaves a memory no one can steal”.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
22 Responses
Our deepest condolences to Mrs. Blanchfield and the rest of the family. Although we only knew Mr. Blanchfield during his time in Victoria, he was clearly a gentleman of the highest caliber. It was an honour and a privilege to have worked with Mr. Blanchfield and he will be missed by all.
Sincerely,
Brecon Gage
On Behalf of Comfort Keepers of Victoria
Arlene, family and Blanchfield family,
So sorry to learn of Burke’s passing. I remember Burke when we were in lower school together. He was always so nice to me. Please know my heart and prayers are with you at this sad time in your lives.
Theresa Lafleur (McGuire)