Gregory Grant Burke

Gregory "Rex" Burke of Shaftsbury, Vermont, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother, peacefully passed away on July 26th surrounded by his loving family. He was born in January 1946, in Springfield, Massachusetts to the late Ignatius and Antoinette (Piela) Burke. Rex was a man of great character, known for his unwavering dedication to his family. He is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years, Deanna Burke, sharing a lifetime of love and joy. Rex will forever be remembered as a proud father to his daughter, Tawnya Trotta, her husband Nick, and his son, Bryan Burke, and his wife Sara. He was an exemplary role model, always providing guidance, encouragement, and unwavering support to his children. His legacy of compassion and integrity will continue to guide them through life's journey. Rex cherished his role as a grandfather to his granddaughters, Elyse, Samantha, and Cora, and his grandson, Alex. He was a presence of love, laughter, and wisdom in their lives, and his memory will forever be etched in their hearts. He is survived by his loving brother, Gaylord Burke, and his wife Kathryn, niece Lauren and her husband Brett Buatti and nephew Michael Burke. Rex and Gaylord’s special bond brought them countless moments of happiness and support throughout their lives. Rex is also survived by his sister in-law Darlene Lyko and her lifelong partner Paul Hughes. Dolly and Paul were very close to Rex and were not only family by marriage but true friends who he confided in and shared many happy memories. Rex was predeceased by his parents, Ignatius and Antoinette, his brother, Donald, niece Melanie, and in-laws Stanley and Jane Lyko. Rex is an alumni of Chicopee High School class of 1964. He received a bachelor's degree from UMass Amherst and a graduate degree in urban planning from Michigan State University where he finished first in his class. Rex was passionate about his service to Bennington County and the state of Vermont, serving as the Executive Director of the BCRC for almost 40 years. He was honored with several commendations throughout his career including the Ferdinand “Nundy” Bongartz award and served as President of Rotary International Chapter 787 in 1984. He found solace in nature, spending countless hours exploring the great outdoors. In his spare time, Rex enjoyed gardening, cooking, travelling, music, golfing with his friends and spending time with his family. He had an inquisitive mind and a knack for problem-solving, always eager to learn and grow. Rex touched the lives of many with his warm smile, infectious positivity, and kind heart. He was always quick to lend a helping hand and never asked for anything in return. He will forever be treasured and kept alive through the lessons he shared, the love he bestowed, and the remembrances he created. A celebration of Rex's life will be held on August 4th at Mahar Funeral Home in Bennington, Vermont, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM followed by a funeral mass at St. John the Baptist Church at 1:30 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to St. John the Baptist Church or St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, through the office of Mahar Funeral Home, 628 Main Street Bennington, Vermont 05201