In addition to this incredible commitment Bernie, the father of five children, managed to find time to do the following: manager, Nova Scotia Liquor Commission (retiring in 1983); organist and choir director at St. Brigid’s Church for 40 years; organist at the Springhill Institution for 10 years; brass player with a community band in Sackville, NB, bandmaster, training officer and commanding officer of the Parrsboro Sea Cadet Corps; official bugler for the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #45 and Provincial President of the Canadian Bandmaster’s Association. In recognition to these, and many other contributions to his community, Bernie was named Parrsboro Citizen of the Year in 1987. Bernie Burke served his country in the 4th Canadian Armored Division and saw action in France, Belgium, Holland and Germany.
I remember Bernie Burke as a gentle man with a strong sense of duty and a terrific sense of humour. It was very difficult to keep up to him. He moved quickly with intention and purpose. Ken Foote had this to say after meeting Bernie: “Like all great teachers, Bernie will never know how many lives he touched and changed. Be it an appearance in a parade or patiently teaching a child to march, Bernie touched many. I know there is a special spot in my heart for him.”
At present there is a great void in the community of Parrsboro as the citizens mourn their loss. Before Bernie passed away the town honoured him with a scholarship in his name. It is good to know that his efforts did not go unnoticed. There was a reception held at the Parrsboro Citizen’s Band Hall after the funeral. Many photos, plaques and trophies were on display, but the most fitting tribute was a performance of “Bernie’s March” by the combined Parrsboro and Sackville, NB Community Bands. This piece was written a number of years ago by Ron MacKay.
written by David Pos, Band Director (Pictou)
Bernie Burke was names Life Member of the Nova Scotia Band Association in 2000.
