Carl Burke

Residing in Pasadena, Maryland, Carl Burke, a beloved father, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 21, 2026, at the age of 71. Born on May 14, 1955, in Baltimore, Maryland, Carl lived a life marked by passion, creativity, and dedication to his family and work.

Carl graduated from Northeast High School and went on to further his education at Anne Arundel Community College and the University of Maryland Baltimore County. He began his professional journey working at Berger's in Pasadena while he was still in high school. Over the course of 22 years in the mechanical tool and die cast manufacturing industry with companies located in South Carolina and Virginia, Carl skillfully balanced his demanding career while raising his two daughters.

In later years, Carl found a new passion as a talented tattoo artist, operating his own shops in Abingdon, Virginia. Upon returning to Maryland, he embraced carpentry for a time, ultimately becoming the esteemed supervisor of the Weinberg property known as Manhattan Park in Baltimore, where he worked until 2012.

Carl served his country with pride as a member of the U.S. Navy, maintaining a lifelong connection as a member of the Fleet Reserve Association, Branch 24, Annapolis. His keen interests were vast, including computer technology, especially blogging and videography, as well as carpentry. In his younger years, Carl was an avid artist, delighting in drawing and painting.

Carl is survived by his loving wife, Kathleen McCruden, cherished daughters, Gwendolyn Burke Kensinger (Daniel Kensinger) and Jennifer Burke Laughlin, who brought immense joy to his life, and devoted brothers, W. Alan Burke (Linda) and Michael R. Burke (Dawn), who also survive him. Carl leaves behind not only his immediate family but also step-children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a host of extended family members who will forever hold his memory dear.

He is preceded in death by his father, Howard Jackson Burke Sr., his mother, Muriel Jane Burke, his brothers, Joseph M. Burke and Howard J. Burke Jr., and his sister, Muriel Burke Coomes.

Friends and family may visit on Friday, July 10th, from 6 to 8 pm at Stallings Funeral Home, 3111 Mountain Road, Pasadena, MD 21122, where a service will take place at 7 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or Hospice of the Chesapeake. The family appreciates your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time as they honor a man who lived life fully, touched the hearts of all who knew him, and leaves behind a legacy of love and resilience.