William Robert Burke

William Robert "Bob" Burke, age 87 of Louisville, Kentucky passed away on Sunday, October 29, 2023. Bob was orphaned at birth and adopted by his saintly parents, the late Bill and Grace Burke of Shelbyville, Kentucky who chose to love him and gave him guidance. He attained his Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts degrees from Eastern Kentucky University, and did post graduate work at the University of Kentucky. Upon graduation he worked as a hospital rep for Abbott Laboratories in Chicago, Illinois for two years.

Bob was a retired Jefferson County Public High School teacher for over 30 years teaching at five different schools. Bob was an Army Veteran and a graduate of Fort Benning Infantry School. He also served in the Kentucky National Guard and completed his obligation with the 8830th M.P. Reserve Unit.

Bob was EKU's number one tennis player in 1957-1958. He was a tennis instructor at Big Spring County Club and was a summer director for the Kentucky Tennis Patrons Foundation, which provided free lessons in Louisville's public parks. He told youngsters "he would rather see them on the courts than in the courts!"

When he slowed down, Bob was an avid amateur golfer. He also served as a field rep Supervisor for the P.V.A. Office. Bob was a Kentucky Colonel, past President of the Lyndon Elks Fraternal Lodge #2052 and a member of Middletown Christian Church.

Bob leaves to cherish his memory his son, Robbie; and a host of relatives and great friends.

Visitation will be 9 to 11am on Friday, November 10, 2023 at Newcomer Cremations Funerals and Receptions, East Louisville Chapel, 235 Juneau Drive, Louisville, Kentucky 40243. A celebration of Bob's life will be there at 11am, followed by interment in Middletown Historic Cemetery.

Bob's service will be livestreamed at the scheduled service time. Click Here to view the service.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Kentucky Children's Home, Home of the Innocents, St. Joseph Orphans Home or to an orphanage of the donor's choice.

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