David Ray Burke, 74, of New Castle IN, passed away unexpectedly in his home on September 6, 2022.

He was born on July 21, 1948 in New Castle, IN, a son of the late Orville and Juanita (Wagner) Burke. He graduated in 1968 from Walter P. Chrysler Memorial High School in New Castle. David retired from Chrysler Corporation after 33 years of service.

David coached youth football, basketball and baseball for over 20 years. He enjoyed fishing, attending car shows, supporting New Castle sports and was an avid Butler Basketball and Colts Football fan. He was an active member of the Elks Lodge 484. He enjoyed spending time with his family and especially watching his grandchildren in their various sports and activities. David and his wife, Martha, enjoyed spending their winters in Florida.

David is survived by his wife of 46 years, Martha (Whisler) Burke of New Castle; children, Troy (Kitty) Burke of New Castle, Nathaniel (Christal McCree) Burke of Indianapolis, Joey (Heather N) Burke of Fort Meade, FL, Andy (Jenny) Burke of New Castle and Adam (Ashlee) Burke of Greenfield; grandchildren: Dezirae Corder, Austin Burke, Logan Burke, Maria Corn, Arial Corn, Sarah Corn, Carson Burke, Brody Burke, Landyn Carter, Rylee Carter, Bostyn Burke; great-grandchildren, Penelope Corder, Averi Burke and Holdyn Burke. He is also survived by his beloved cat, Lilly.

In addition to his parents, David was preceded in death by his in-laws, Gene and Phyllis Whisler; a daughter-in-law, Dr Heather E Burke and many siblings.

Funeral services will be held at 12:00 pm, Monday, September 12, 2022 at Sproles Family Funeral Home in New Castle. Burial will follow at South Mound Cemetery West Lawn Addition.

Friends may call from 3 – 6 pm, Sunday, September 11, 2022 at the funeral home and one hour prior to the service on Monday. The Elks Memorial Ceremony will begin at 6:00 pm, Sunday evening.

You may send the family a personal condolence at www.sprolesfamilycares.com.

Millicent Martin Emery is a reporter and editor for the Western Wayne News.