Bernard E. Burke
"Bernie"
1923 - 2002
Burke, Bernard E. “Bernie” - one of Nova Scotia's most renowned bandsman, and ambassadors for his town and province passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 29, 2002 at Cumberland Regional Health Care Centre, Amherst. Born June 28, 1923 in Joggins, he was the son of the late Albert and Daisy (Melanson) Burke. Exhibiting musical talent in his early years, he began piano studies at the age of 8 and became a member of the Joggins band at the age of 12. He was educated in Joggins schools and in 1940, he volunteered for military service. He took his basic training at Parkdale and remained there for three years as a military bandsman and bugler, until being transferred to Camp Borden for tank training in the Algonquin Regiment as part of the 4th Canadian Armored Division. From there he was sent to Wheatley, England, for advanced infantry training. He saw action in France, Belgium, Holland and Germany. Following the Armistice, he returned to Pictou where he completed his High School education at the Canadian Veteran's Training School, as well as directed the Oddfellow's Band. He moved to Parrsboro in 1947 and was employed at Smith’s Funeral Home, and later at his father's restaurant business. Shortly after his move to Parrsboro, he assumed the directorship of the Parrsboro Citizen's Band and remained in that position for 47 years. Bernie was largely responsible for the Band's reputation as one of the Maritimes' most renowned concert and marching ensembles. He managed the Nova Scotia Liquor Commission store in Parrsboro retiring in 1983. Deeply committed to his community, he was bandmaster, training officer and commanding officer of the Parrsboro Sea Cadet Corps, and was official bugler for the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #45, where he was a life member. Bernie was choir director and organist at St. Brigid's Church for over 40 years and served as organist at the Springhill institution for 10 years. He was a member of the Parrsboro Volunteer Fire Dept., was President of the Parrsboro Junior Chamber of Commerce, was first Chairman of the Parrsboro March of Dimes and Provincial President of the Canadian Bandmaster's Association. In recognition of his many contributions to his community, Bernie was named Parrsboro's Citizen of the year in 1987. Following his retirement as leader of the Parrsboro Citizen’s Band, he maintained his interest and participation in music as a member of an ensemble of musicians in Sackville, N.B., as well played in Mike Fuller's "Elastic Band". Bernie also occupied his time refurbishing instruments and maintained a library of band music unrivalled in the Maritimes. He was known for his gentle, helpful and selfless demeanor and was responsible for hundreds of young people gaining a proficiency and appreciation for music. Bernie was a true model of volunteerism and community service. He is survived by his wife, the former Eleanor Hemphill; daughters, Donalda White, Patricia, both of Parrsboro; Brenda (Bill) Wheaton, Cole Harbour; Doreen (Terry) George, Calgary; son, Paul (Debbie), Meadowvale Village, Ont., brother Robert (Phyllis), Amherst; sister, Patricia (Wally) Hacking, Comox, B.C.; ten grandchildren; a great grandchild. Visitation 7-9 p.m. Friday, November 1, 2002 at Smith’s Funeral Home, Parrsboro, with parish prayers at 6:30 p.m. Funeral 11:00 a.m. Saturday (November 2, 2002) in the St. Brigid’s Catholic Church. Burial in the church cemetery. Reception to follow at the Parrsboro Band Hall. Memorial donations to St. Brigid’s Cemetery Fund, Parkinson’s Society of Canada (Maritime Region) or the Canadian Cancer Society.
