Richard F. Burke, at 76
Richard Francis Burke, of Naples, Florida, formerly of Hull, died peacefully Monday, surrounded by his loving wife of 50 years, Fran; son Timothy of Burlington; and daughter Alicia Kersten of Vancouver, British Columbia. He was 76.
Mr. Burke had a passion for gardening, playing cards, being active, and travelling. If you ever needed to find him during the summers in Hull, he would either be deep in his garden tending to his tomatoes, playing a game of skat, going for a bike ride, or preparing for his next vacation. 
Born in Mattapan, Mr. Burke was the third of five children born to William and Mary Burke. He had four siblings, William “Bill” Burke, Mary Pierce, Peggy Lee, and Edmund Burke.
Mr. Burke attended Hyde Park High School in Boston, graduating in 1958, and later attended Northeastern University. While at a dance at Moseley’s in October of 1963, he met his future wife, Fran Mahoney. The couple married in November 1966 and spent their early years in Mattapan. 
After moving to Hull in 1970, “Richie and Fran” spent the next 39 years raising their three children, Richard Alan, Timothy William, and Alicia Elizabeth. For 36 years, Mr. Burke took the Hull commuter boat into Boston, where he had a career in IT. He retired from working for state government in 2006. 
Although he was known to family and many friends as Richie, many others knew him as Dick. For many years, he was a member of the Hull Finance Committee, now called the advisory board, where he served the town with knowledge and distinction. 
Mr. Burke was predeceased by his parents; his brother, Edmund; and his son, Richard Alan. In addition to his wife, daughter, and son, he leaves five wonderful grandchildren, James, Alexandra, Samantha, Tula, and Kaia; and several nieces and nephews. He had many friends throughout his life and enjoyed spending time with them over a beer and a good laugh. 
His wife and children wish to thank all of the family and friends for the support they provided over the last several years.  
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations in memory of Richard to the Alzheimer’s Support Network, www.alzsupport.org, located at 660 Tamiami Trail North, Suite 21, Naples FL 34102.