Frederick James Burke Sr.

Dr. Frederick James Burke, Sr. was born September 23, 1928 to the parents of Henry and
Elmira Burke. Frederick was the second of five children. He was baptized at an early age at
New Hope Baptist Church formerly in Brentwood, MO.
Frederick Burke attended Brentwood public schools and graduated from Sumner High School
in January 1948. Growing up, in high school, college and into adulthood his hobbies were
playing the trumpet in the concert and marching bands, baseball, tennis, table tennis ,bowling,
and cooking.
Frederick Burke attended Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, AL, Department Veterinary Medicine
from 1948 through 1954. While at Tuskegee , he became a member of the Omega Psi Phi
Fraternity.
After completion of his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Burke entered the U.S. Air Force as
a First Lieutenant , rose to the rank of Captain, served in Japan as a veterinarian -treated sentry
dogs, inspected vegetables from Japanese hydroponic farms for chemical residues and also
worked as a Preventative Medical Officer in the Base Hospital. Upon completion of his tour of
duty , Dr. Frederick Burke returned to St Louis ,resumed his career as a Supervisory Veterinary
Medical Officer ( USDA).

Fred married Edith Douglas on December 25,1960. They were blessed with four children-
Cynthia, Frederick-Jr, Robert, and Edward.

Upon his retirement, Fred and Edith returned to St. Louis where they joined and worshiped with
the parishioners at First Baptist Church of Webster Groves.
Deacon Frederick Burke, Sr. departed this life, peacefully , at home , surrounded by family. He
leaves to cherish his life and memory: his devoted and loving wife of 59 years, Edith Burke; 4
children, Cynthia Burke, Dr. Frederick Burke, Jr, Dr. Robert Burke, Dr. Edward ( Althea) Burke;
three step-sisters, Carrie Williams, Carol Hall and Mary Moore; cousins, nieces, nephews,
friends, and the faithful at First Baptist Church of Webster Groves

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Frederick James Burke Sr., please visit our floral store.