Tributes

Miles Michael Burke of Indio, California, was born on August 14, 1942 to Bud and Jo Burke, and raised in Caledonia, New York among many Irish family members including his cousin Jim Cunningham. He is survived by his wife of nearly fifty years, Glenna, and his daughter Kate. In high school he thrived playing baseball, basketball, and football. Even in recent years, he would reminisce about games, remembering specific plays and scores. At age 17, he joined the US Army and served in the reserves for four years while attending college. He majored in history and received a degree from SUNY Brockport where his uncle Armand Burke was a professor. While there he was an active member of Veterans Against the War and participated in many organized events. After teaching and many adventures in New York, California, and Ireland, he met Glenna Gervais. She was 21 and he was 32! They married two years later and shortly after moved to Scranton, PA where he received a Masters of Science in Counseling. While in Scranton, their daughter Kate Augusta was born in 1978. In 1980, Miles and Glenna moved to Binghamton, New York. Miles went on to serve alcoholics and their families for over 40 years at agencies, private practice, and the Betty Ford Center in Rancho Mirage, California. While in California, they enjoyed attending the Pebble Beach golf tournament, many baseball games, and visits to the beach. They also spent six years in Charleston, SC where they traveled with his lifelong friends Don and Linda. Returning to California, Miles swam four to five times a week, listened to his beloved jazz, played with his cat, watched baseball, played scrabble, and read many books. Although he was retired, Miles continued to work with alcoholics and their families. This was his life's work. Miles was a lifelong Democrat and supported Bernie Sanders; he found Donald Trump to be totally deplorable. Miles died after a short respiratory illness. The family would like to thank the staff at Eisenhower Hospital for providing exceptional care. While in the hospital his fighting Irish spirit was very much alive. During his last day he watched the Masters and was thrilled about Rory McIlroy's success. He passed away on Jackie Robinson Day, a testament to his love of baseball and deep admiration for Jackie Robinson. Miles was 51 years sober and had an attitude of gratitude for each day, giving credit to Alcoholics Anonymous. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you reach out to someone who is suffering and be of service to others.

Tributes

Miles Burke

August 14, 1942 - April 15, 2026