Lt. Colonel Thomas John Burke

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Lt. Colonel Thomas John Burke, United States Air Force (Retired), 80, of Nashua, New Hampshire, passed away peacefully on June 22, 2026. A man devoted to those he loved, Tom never passed up an opportunity for a hug, a boat ride, a good laugh, or the chance to lend a helping hand. His generous spirit, unwavering loyalty, and infectious smile left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Born in Framingham, Massachusetts, on April 20, 1946, Tom was the son of Marion Marguerite (Byrnes) and Thomas James Burke. He was raised in New London, Connecticut, alongside his sister, Marion, and surrounded by a large extended family of cousins, nieces and nephews. They remained an important part of his life. He graduated from New London High School in 1964 and attended Mitchell College, where he met the love of his life, Donna (Van Winkle). Their enduring partnership would become the foundation of a 57-year marriage filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Tom later earned his degree from Nichols College before proudly entering the United States Air Force in 1969, beginning a distinguished military career that reflected his deep sense of duty, leadership, and service to his country.

Throughout his 21-year Air Force career, Tom and Donna embraced the adventure of military life, making homes and friendships across the country and around the world. Their journey took them to assignments at McGuire Air Force Base in New Jersey, Hickam Air Force Base in Hawaii, Upper Heyford Air Base in England, Langley Air Force Base in Virginia, and Hanscom Air Force Base in Massachusetts. Among his many duties, Tom was especially proud of his time at the Pentagon, where he contributed to important policy work and gained a firsthand appreciation for the people and decisions that shaped the nation’s defense. He often shared stories from those years and memories he and Donna made while living near Washington, D.C.

Retirement from the Air Force marked the beginning of a new chapter for Tom, one that blended his passion for boating with his natural ability to make friends wherever he went. As manager of Irwin Marine in Hudson, New Hampshire, he was as comfortable helping customers find the right boat as he was swapping stories on the dock. In retirement, Tom and Donna spent many happy days cruising Lake Winnipesaukee, creating memories and enjoying the simple pleasures of being out on the water together.

Of all the titles Tom earned throughout his life, none meant more to him than Dad and Grampy. Despite the demands of military life and a busy career, Tom and Donna built their lives around their sons, Thomas Jack and Brian Jeffrey. Family always came first, a lesson Tom taught not only with words but through his actions every day. He instilled in his boys the importance of hard work, loyalty, kindness, and laughter, along with a healthy appreciation for a good Irish joke. The values he passed on continue to guide them today.

The arrival of granddaughters Madeline (“Max”) Burke and Hailey Burke brought Tom one of life’s greatest joys. Already known for his kind and generous heart, becoming a grandfather made him even softer, and perhaps a little goofier. For the last two decades, Max and Hailey filled his life with immeasurable pride and love. Whether he was watching Max shine on stage in a theater production or cheering Hailey on from the sidelines at a field hockey game or cheerleading competition, Tom was their biggest fan. Few things brought him more happiness than celebrating their accomplishments.

He equally loved daughter-in-laws, Denise and Jennifer, whom he welcomed into their family with open arms. The term “dad” wasn’t meant for Tommy and Brian alone, it was extended to Denny and Jenny as well.

Tom never forgot his New London roots. The friendships, family memories, and values he developed there remained important to him throughout his life. He was a remarkable friend and neighbor, generous with both his time and his unwavering willingness to help others. Whether it was giving someone a ride, entertaining the neighborhood on Halloween, or offering his driveway for a game of basketball, Tom had a gift for bringing people together. It was simply who he was: a kind, dependable man whose door was always open.

Tom is survived by his loving wife, Donna; his sons, Thomas Burke and his wife, Denise, and Brian Burke and his wife, Jennifer; his granddaughters, Madeline (“Max”) Burke and Hailey Burke; his sister, Marion Lunden; his sister-in-law, Kathleen Van Winkle; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Thomas and Marion Burke. Tom’s absence will be felt deeply by all who knew and loved him.

SERVICES: Visiting hours will be held on Sunday July 5, 2026, from 3:00 – 6:00 pm at Davis Funeral Home 1 Lock Street Nashua, NH 03064. A private burial will take place at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen, New Hampshire. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Tom’s memory to the American Lung Association.

Tom’s family encourages everyone whose life was touched by him to raise a toast in his honor and share a favorite story or memory. The laughter, friendship, and love that filled his life are the greatest tribute that can be given in return.