James 'Jimmy' F. Burke Jr., 48

James F. Burke Jr. of Kalispell “went to be with his Lord” on December 7, 2014.

“Jimmy” was born March 18, 1966, in Glen Dale, West Virginia. Jimmy and his family moved to Montana in 1971 and he graduated from Columbia Falls High School in 1985.

Jimmy treasured his family and was the beloved son to Ruth and James Burke (now deceased). He was a wonderful brother to Trent (deceased), Clint, Becky and Shannon. His greatest joy came from being the favorite uncle to Candice, Katie, Meghan, Nichole, Jacob, Brent, Miranda, Gavin, Camryn, Tate, Payton, Kaycee and Glenna. His happiness only increased with the arrival of his great-nieces and -nephews, Gwen, Phelan, Elijah, Heydan, Addilynn, Rielynn and Jaxson.  Jimmy is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. His family was all very important to him, including his extended family Russ and Angie Olson and their children.  

Jimmy loved the great outdoors and spent spare time fishing and hunting. He enjoyed time spent building things with his best friend Russ Olson.

Jimmy was a gifted craftsman and mechanic. He enjoyed being a “grease monkey” and working with anything mechanical. Jimmy enjoyed working and tinkering on projects and constantly challenged himself to learn new skills, technologies and various other interests.  

Jimmy's impish sense of humor brightened the lives of families and friends. He always made time to help those in need and was a kind-hearted friend and neighbor. He enjoyed time spent reading the Bible and learning more about his Lord and Savior. Jimmy also enjoyed relaxing and watching movies. He was a huge fan of NASCAR and “Duck Dynasty.”

Viewing will be between 9 and 10 a.m. with a funeral service at 11 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 12, at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Columbia Falls, officiated by Pastor Matt Nelson. Graveside services will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery, with a luncheon at the Our Redeemer Church.  

“Beloved son, brother, uncle and friend, we will always carry your memory in our hearts.”