Profound sadness in Mayo at passing of David Burke

THERE was profound sadness around the Scardaune, Ballindine and Crossboyne region in recent days with the news of the death of David Burke, The Heath, Scardaune, in Perth, Australia.

David, who was in his mid-30s, took ill and died suddenly at his home in Perth. Like many of his generation, he had moved to Australia in his early 20s and made his home there for the last decade or more.

He excelled at carpentry and had graduated with honours from the Furniture Design College in Letterfrack. He enjoyed his visits home to Mayo and he and his fiancée, Sorcha, spent a lovely vacation with family and friends during the summer. They were looking forward to returning next August (2025) for their wedding ceremony.

Many remember David with fond regard from his days in Carnageehy NS and in St Colman’s College where he stood out as being the tallest member of his class. His kind manner and unassuming nature endeared him to so many people.

Many heartfelt tributes have been paid to David by friends and neighbours around home and in Australia. His former teacher in St Colman’s College, Johnny Colleran from Hollymount, said: “I was shocked and saddened to hear of the death of David. I had the privilege of teaching David during his time in Colman's. I pray that God will comfort his family in the difficult days and months ahead.”

The late David Burke. Pic: rip.ie

Marty Murphy commented: “David was the true definition of a gentleman. I have such fond memories of our time at Colman’s, college in Galway, and of course, the car with the back seats removed! He brought so much brightness to the lives of everyone who knew him, and the world feels a little less vibrant without him.”

Eileen and Cormac Lynch, Skibbereen, Cork, said they met Dave shortly after they landed in Perth. “Dave was the most kind, helpful, loyal and trustworthy friend. He was a true gentleman and someone whom we were privileged to call a friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this heartbreaking time.”

Reposing was in Carey's Funeral Home with removal to St Joseph's Church, Ballindine. The funeral Mass on Friday was celebrated by Fr Sean Flynn, assisted by Fr Martin O’Connor, and was followed by private cremation in Shannon Crematorium.

David will be greatly missed by his heartbroken parents, Martin and Carmel (nee Hannon), his fiancée Sorcha, his sisters Michelle and Susan, brothers-in-law David and Alan, nieces Hannah, Caragh, Fiadh and Aoife, nephew Conor, aunts, uncles, cousins, relatives, neighbours and many friends.