Gansevoort - John O'Keeffe Burke, 65, of Gansevoort, New York, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at Saratoga Hospital.

Born on June 28, 1960, in Cohoes, John was the beloved son of the late Walter E. Burke and Marion J. (O'Keeffe) Burke. He was the devoted husband of Diane M. (Van Alstine) Burke, with whom he shared a life grounded in family, loyalty, and deep friendship.

The central focus of John's life was gathering people together to enjoy each other. He had a quick wit and loved to humorously spar, thoroughly relishing a good laugh. John was happiest when he was at The Farm, his family's property in Hadley, a place that held lifelong meaning for him. He spent every summer there as a child and found his greatest joy surrounded by family and friends—sharing stories on the front lawn, swimming in the pond, and simply being together. As his own children grew, John cherished teaching them about nature, their family heritage, and the importance of stewardship of the land. Time spent in the woods was especially dear to him, whether hunting alongside his brothers, nephews, or close friends – or enjoying Sunday morning hikes with Diane.

An avid outdoorsman, John also had a deep passion for skiing, particularly when sharing the sport with his children. It brought him great pride to see skiing become a passion for them as well. Riding motorcycles also held a special place in his heart.

John was a devoted father and husband, and a loyal friend to many. He made a point to stay in touch and valued the relationships he built throughout his life. True to himself in all that he did, John formed trusted, long-lasting friendships rooted in sincerity and respect.

Forever curious, John was an enthusiastic reader who loved learning for the sake of learning. His great wealth of knowledge contributed to being a self-made man, teaching himself many skills. This curiosity also made him an avid fan and player of Jeopardy, a pastime he thoroughly enjoyed. He had an uncanny ability to recall details and stories.

Professionally, John dedicated nearly 37 years to Van Alstine and Sons in Cohoes, where he worked as a Senior Industrial Salesman. He was an integral member of the sales team, widely respected for his strong work ethic, dedication, and the genuine relationships he built with customers and colleagues alike. John's sincere desire to help others drove him to offer innovative solutions and fueled his lasting love for his profession.

We will greatly miss his wit, humor and his ever generous nature in gathering us together.

In addition to his wife Diane, John is survived by his children, William Van Alstine Burke, Claire Reed Burke (Seth Thomas), and Owen Walter Burke; his brothers, William Burke (Katherine), David Burke (Francine), The Rev. Geoffrey Burke, and Walter Burke (Susan); as well as several nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be held Wednesday, December 17th from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Our Lady of Assumption Church, 498 Watervliet Shaker Road, Latham. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated Thursday, December 18th, 11:00 a.m. at the church, with John's dear brother Reverend Geoffrey Burke as celebrant. Mass to be followed by interment in the family plot at St. Agnes Cemetery, Cohoes.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation by visiting www.t2t.org.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of The Dufresne & Cavanaugh Funeral Home, Latham.

To express a message of condolence or for further information, please visit www.dufresneandvavanaugh.com.