BURKE, Delbert Otis 1916 - 1999

BURKE, EXNER

Posted By: Pat Ludeke (email)
Date: 8/27/2014 at 00:34:04

DELBERT BURKE

Delbert O. Burke, 82, Sun City West, Ariz., formerly of Clear Lake, Iowa, died Tuesday, March 30, 1999 in Sun City West. Delbert had been in failing health for more than a year as a result of emphysema, and had been hospitalized for nearly two weeks.

Funeral services were held Monday, April 5 at the Shepherd of the Hills United Methodist Church in Sun City West. A second service will be held Monday April 12, at Clear Lake United Methodist Church and burial will be in Clear Lake.

During his high school years in Presho, S.D., Burke learned telegraphy and railroad accounting from his father, Fred W. Burke, who was the agent for the Milwaukee Railroad. He graduated from Presho High School in 1934 and immediately went to work for the Milwaukee as a telegrapher and agent.

Delbert soon was working as a train dispatcher at various points on the Milwaukee, including Mason City, Iowa, and other promotions followed. During his 45 years with the railroad, he advanced to general manager of operations for all lines east of Miles City, Mont., with headquarters in Chicago, Ill., and subsequently was appointed assistant vice president, from which position he retired in 1977.

Delbert and Janet initially retired to Clear Lake, and later moved to Arizona.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Janet; sons Dale of Bettendorf, Iowa, and John of Seattle, Wash.; a daughter, Barbara Exner, Antioch, Ill.; and six grandchildren.

Transcriber’s Note – Delbert Otis Burke was born September 10, 1916, died March 30, 1999 and was buried in the Clear Lake Cemetery, Section A Row 8.