Burke – Ian James
Passed away on Feb. 14th 2022, Beloved husband of Judith, Loving father of Michelle, Sharon, Christopher & Megan, Loving stepfather of Kylie, Paul , Sarah & families. A Service will be held at the Pomonal Hall on Saturday Feb 19th 2022 commencing at 11.30am. A Private Cremation will follow.
Dear Judith,
I was saddened to read of Ian’s passing in today’s Stawell Times News.
I valued Ian as a professional colleague at Stawell High School and later Secondary College. He was always cheerful, dedicated to his students, and a valued source of sound advice and support. I regarded him as a friend as well as colleague.
He was always professional, encouraging and supportive to both staff and students. Indeed he was one of the people I trusted most during the time I was privileged to work with him.
I also enjoyed working with him as we rebuilt my front fence all those years ago. Unfortunately despite his best efforts I remained light years away from learning to be the tradesman he was!
I remember his children with respect and affection – despite a very occasional disagreement. Please pass on my best wishes to them – I would have loved seeing them again.
I regret that I am unable to attend the service at Pomonal Hall as I am in isolation prior to having a medical procedure on Monday. I really wish I could be there.
I hope this letter in a small way assists you, the children and his friends to work through this sad time.
Yours sincerely,
Peter Martin
Please accept our sincere sympathy on Ian’s sudden passing. We always enjoyed meeting up with you both at any function that Robert Webb had. We hope you find these words comforting.
To the Burke family. Judy and I wish to pass on our condolences at the passing of Ian.
As a colleague, Ian gave his all the school. His skills at his craft of woodwork were exemplary as were his skills as an educator and mentor for the many students who passed through his classes. He was fortunate to be able to spend so mush time in his woodwork and graphics classes to build one to one relationships with students that enhanced their academic and personal skills. His willingness to extend himself through being an integral part of the PEEL (Program for Enhancing Effective Learning) project gave the group as very different perspective on learning in different teaching settings and I certainly appreciated his input.
Ian helped make Stawell College an excellent school.
Rod and Judy Greer
Our sympathy to all of Ian’s family on their loss of a wonderful man, a man with that beautiful welcoming smile. Ian has certainly left a positive mark on many of his students, fellow staff, friends and family. Love from Robyn and Graeme Anyon
I was surprised and shocked to hear of Papa Smurf’s passing. Sending my deepest sympathy and condolences at this sad time
To Judith and the Burke family,
I wish to pass on my condolences at the passing of Ian. I worked with Ian for many years at Stawell High School and then Secondary College. We were Year 7 and Year 8 Co-ordinators for many years together so I valued his advice and valued his friendship. He was a master craftsman and helped me build my house. We also tried to master the game of volleyball in its early days in Stawell. We had a lot of fun in the process. I’m sorry I can’t be there today, however, my thoughts are with you all on this day.
John and Michele Harrington
Our deepest condolences to the Burke family.
Without a dought one if not the best teachers slash mentors at Stawell High School and then Stawell Secondary College a true gentleman. Always a smile and always a guiding word.
Will be missed by all who had the honour of meeting him.
Tools down Mr Burke its time to rest.
To the Burke Family, So sad to hear of Ian’s passing. Have fantastic memories of our days on the Stawell Agricultural Society. Ian was always ready and willing to help in any way. His craftsmanship was second to none! You all must be so proud of him and will miss him terribly. Hey Burkey, I still remember what FIGJAM means! Keep everyone laughing up there! Jo and David Seeary.