JAMES BRETT BURKE

James Brett Burke, 65, of Alpena, passed away on April 21, 2024, at MyMichigan Medical Center – Midland.

Brett was born Oct. 8, 1958, in Detroit to the late Billie and Jean (Williams) Burke. He is a retired schoolteacher from Pied Piper where he ran the greenhouse and annual flower sale. Brett coached, helped organize, and volunteered for the Special Olympics, its polar plunge, and basketball program. He was a member of H.O.G. (Harley Owners Group) and loved to ride.

Surviving are his wife, Kim; brother, Brian (Joyce) Burke; nephew PJ (Jess) Burke; brother-in-law, Dan (Kim) Wallis; niece, Onalee Wallis; nephew Zane Wallis; mother-in-law, Ginny Wallis; and his loyal retriever, Molly Brown.

Brett was preceded in death by his nephew, Alex Burke.

Cremation arrangements have been handled by the Bannan Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Area 3 Special Olympics.