James Joseph Burke (May 1, 1931 – May 19, 2014) "Jimmy the Gent" passed away while on holiday in Laguna Shores, CA. At the time of his passing, Jim was very happy and his death was very quick. As with almost everything, he did it his way – no hospital, no prolonged pain.

Jim had a voracious curiosity about people, places and things; he shared his knowledge with all who wanted to learn. He also had a fantastic and quirky sense of humor, not always "G-Rated", but it was always sharp and witty. His stories were full of detail so you could really experience the tale he was telling. He could calculate complex equations in his head. And he had a great love for Mexican food, shell fish, beer and chocolate.

Jim started his life in Lancaster, New York and was Salutatorian of his 1949 high school graduating class. He served in the Air Force and was honorably discharged with the rank of Staff Sergeant; he attended the University of Buffalo and in 1957 graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering (Electrical). In the late 1950s Jim moved to the Atlantic City area of New Jersey and then to Southern California in 1963. He worked in Aerospace in various capacities/companies, including Bell Labs, TRW, the Minute-Man missile program and other satellite projects.

Jim was a helpful and valued neighbor. He was also a loner and very private. Best of all, I was privileged to have Jim as my Dad. We all miss him very much. Jim is survived by his daughter Kathleen DeVine and two step-daughters Sandy Innocenti and Teri Rees-Fernandez, his extended family and his many, many, many friends.

"Here's to Jim!"