Bernard G. Burke, 90, of Bonesteel, SD passed away suddenly at his home, February 11, 2010.
Bernard was born March 25, 1919 on a farm SW of Fairfax, SD to Leo and Hope (Piper) Burke.
Bernard started school in Fairfax. The family later moved to St.Charles, SD where he graduated from high school. He entered the service April 1, 1942. He fought in the Battle of Normandy and while serving received a purple heart, good conduct medal and several other medals. He was honorably discharged November 30, 1945.
Bernard was united in marriage to Ranatha Schochenmaier on February 19, 1949. They would have celebrated their 61st anniversary on February 19, 2010. To this union 2 children were born, Bernita whom died at birth and Terry.
Bernard and Ranatha farmed by St. Charles until moving to town in 1982. He continued to help on the farm until a couple of years ago, however, he still made several trips a week to the farm to play with the dogs and oversee what was going on.
Bernard is survived by his wife Ranatha of the Butte Nursing Home, son Terry (Diane) of Bonesteel, grandchildren, Ryan (Genevieve) of Hettinger, ND, Jennifer (Cody) Krieger of Fort Pierre, SD, and Michael of Academy, SD. Also survived by 2 great grandchildren Cheyenne and John Krieger, a sister Berniece Hermsen of the Butte NH, brother in law Aldrew (Margie) Schochenmaier, sisters in law Anna Marie (Elmer) Cahoy, Lila Schochenmaier, Barbara Schochenmaier, Amanda Schochenmaier and Frances Schochenmaier.
Bernard was preceded in death by his parents Leo and Hope, infant daughter Bernita, brothers in law, Merrill (Hammie) Hermsen, Herman, Henry, Alvin, Albert and Raymond Schochenmaier and sisters in law Sarah Brown and Amanda Schochenmaier.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, February 15, 2010 at 10:30 AM at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Bonesteel. Burial will be in the St. Marys Catholic Cemetery, Bonesteel. There will be a rosary on Sunday at 7:00 PM at the Church. Visitation will be one hour prior to both services at the Church.