Burke, Rt. Rev. Joseph William

Rev. Joseph William Burke was born on May 15, 1903 at Fortune Bay, Newfoundland (St. Jacques’ Parish) to Thomas Burke and Theresa Farrell. He completed his Theological studies at St. Joseph’s Seminary in Edmonton between1923-1928 and was ordained on December 9, 1928 by Archbishop H.J. O’Leary in Seminary Chapel.

During his ministry he served as an Assistant Pastor at St. Joseph's Cathedral (1928-1932), Pastor in Trochu (1932-1936), Pastor in Vegreville (1936-1950), and Pastor at Immaculate Heart Parish in Edmonton (1950-1972). He was a founding force behind the establishment of St. James Parish in the 1950s and he was a Chaplain at St. Joseph's Hospital in Edmonton from 1972-1977.

Rev. Burke retired in 1977 and lived a the Grey Nuns Regional Centre in Edmonton until his death. Rev. Burke died in Edmonton on January 03, 1980 and was buried at Holy Cross Cemetery on Jan. 8, 1980. He was an accomplished pianist; a Knight of Columbus (4th degree) for 54 years and K.C. Chaplain, Rev. Burke also served as the Director of the CWL Civic Action Group for 18 years.

Chaplain at St. Joseph’s Hospital & Aberhart Memorial Hospital 1972-1977. His ministry was marked by his sympathy and concern for the sick and the aged.