Walter J. Burke, age 68, of Dubuque, passed away at 8:39 a.m., on Sunday, April 21, 2024, at home surrounded by his family.  In keeping with Walter’s wishes there will be no public visitation.  Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting his family.

Walter was born on November 30, 1955, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Robert and Agnes (Wolert) Burke. 

Walter graduated from Wahlert Catholic High School, Class of 1974.  He was united in marriage to Brenda Thurston on May 12, 1999, at Eagle Point Park.  Sadly she preceded him in death on May 31, 2022.  Walter was a hard worker who devoted his career to several companies including FDL, Farmland Foods, Turnquist Carpets and John Deere Dubuque Works.  He finally retired in 2016 from Dubuque Stamping and Manufacturing.  In his free time Walter enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.  Some of his favorite activities were going to the Boat Club, watching NASCAR and camping.  He was a good man and will be greatly missed.

Those left to cherish Walter’s memory include: his daughters, Amber Connolly and Kelly Burke, both of Dubuque, IA; 5 grandchildren, Alex Burke, William “Willy” Ryder, Hannah Burke and Sophia and Mitchell Connolly; a great-grandson, Emmett Burke; and his siblings, Jerry (Deb) Burke, Des Moines, IA and Linda Burke, Belton, TX.

Walter was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Brenda Burke; and a stillborn son, Jeffery J. Burke.

Walter’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque, especially Julie and Jennifer, for their wonderful care in making Walter’s days more comfortable.

The family will thankfully receive your support through greeting cards and memorials in Walter’s memory which may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Walter Burke Family.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.behrfuneralhome.com