Obituary of John Joseph Burke, Jr.

John Joseph Burke Jr., age 65 of Columbia, South Carolina died peacefully Wednesday, March 6, 2024 with his family by his side.

John was born in Chicago, Illinois on July 17, 1958, the son of Frances (Wroblewski) and John Burke. He attended Westover High in Albany, Georgia where he was an offensive tackle as a senior and All-City pick. Twice selected team’s best offensive lineman (Westover High tied for conference title in 1974.) John was on the football team and graduated from the Citadel in Charleston, South Carolina in 1980 with a BA in Education. As a First All- Southern Conference Performer, he was named an AP (Associated Press) Honorable Mention All-American for the 1979 season.

In his work, John was a leader and mentor, traveling extensively and spending many years in the restaurant industry before founding SCIHOP Inc., a franchise of twelve IHOP’s in Georgia and South Carolina. He enjoyed fishing, swimming, and spending time with his family and friends.

He is survived by Gail Burke, mother of their two children; daughters, Ashley Burke and Lauren Bowers; and grandchildren, Violet and Clara Bowers.  

A Memorial Service for family and friends will be held on Sunday, April 7, 2024 at 2:00 pm at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 212 N. Jefferson St, Albany, GA 31701. There will be a Celebration of Life immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to The Citadel: https://shorturl.at/MS039 

The South Carolina Cremation Society is assisting the family. Family and friends may sign the online guest book by clicking on the “Tribute Wall” tab above.