Byron Lee Burke

Byron Lee Burke, 88, of Sturgeon Lake, MN, formerly of Duluth, died Friday, March 13, 2026 at Essentia Health St. Mary’s Hospital. Byron was born in Duluth on May 12, 1937 to Lester and Mary (Murtley) Burke. Byron attended Denfeld High School and started working in the gas service station business. He managed and operated Burke’s Skyline Station until 1980, then started the West End Towing Company, working with his sons until his retirement in 2000. He married Sharon Sherer in Duluth on January 11, 1964 and together they raised three children. Following his retirement, he and Sharon moved to Sturgeon Lake. They enjoyed spending time with family on the lake, numerous pontoon rides and hosting the holidays and family celebrations. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren’s visits were the highlights of his day. He was a handyman, fixing most anything and loved his woodworking. He spent many hours putzing in his yard, making sure everything was in its place. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Sharon; siblings, Carol White, Lyle Burke, Gary Burke and Barb Bakke. Byron is survived by his children, Wendy Allenson of Chaska, MN, Cary (Lori) Burke of Duluth and Mike (Sherrie) Burke of Poplar, WI; three sisters, Joann Petoletti of Duluth, Sharon (Earl) Ribaudo of Duluth and Deb Getz of North Carolina; a brother, Dennis (Lee) Burke of Duluth; 6 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.

Memorial service 2 p.m. Saturday, March 28, 2026 at Williams Lobermeier Boettcher Funeral Home with a visitation starting at 1 p.m. Pastor Henry Noordzy officiating. Arrangements by Williams Lobermeier Boettcher Funeral Home.