Dr. Michael Joseph Burke

CORRECTION: The memorial we originally had for Planned Parenthood has been rescinded. Planned parenthood is the largest provider of abortion in America and we realize that their work is diametrically opposed to the Catholic Church and her teachings on the sanctity of life from conception until natural death. We are sorry for the confusion and ask you to please pray for the repose of the soul of our husband and father.

Dr. Michael Joseph Burke passed away on July 27, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, scholarship, and service that touched countless lives. He devoted his career to caring for people with mental illness, educating future physicians, and advancing psychiatric medicine throughout Kansas.

Michael’s lifelong love of learning shaped an extraordinary academic and professional journey. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Akron in 1978, a Ph.D. in Neurophysiology from the Medical College of Wisconsin in 1984, and his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Kansas School of Medicine in 1989. He completed his residency in Psychiatry at the University of Kansas School of Medicine in Wichita, followed by a fellowship in Psychopharmacology at the Psychiatric Research Institute of Via Christi Regional Medical Center. In 2004, he was selected for the prestigious Physician Educator Fellowship through the Harvard Macy Institute at Harvard Medical School and the Harvard Graduate School of Education.

Throughout his distinguished career, Michael became a respected psychiatrist, educator, researcher, mentor, and administrator. As Chief Medical Officer of Larned State Hospital, he led with integrity, high standards, and an unwavering commitment to patient dignity and safety. His students and colleagues remember him as an exceptional teacher who challenged others to think critically, practice thoughtfully, and never stop asking questions.

Yet those who knew Michael best will remember much more than his professional accomplishments. He possessed a brilliant mind, a mischievous sense of humor, and the wit of a true rascal. He delighted in lively conversation, loved a spirited debate, and had an uncanny ability to make an ordinary evening unforgettable.

An extraordinary cook and gracious host, he transformed family dinners into celebrations, carefully planning every detail—from the menu and wine pairings to the music, flowers, and his famous mustard bar.

Michael’s favorite recipe called for equal measures of family, friends, laughter, thoughtful conversation, and one more carefully chosen finishing touch. This attention to detail was never about perfection; it was his way of telling people they mattered. Family and friends sometimes smiled, sometimes rolled their eyes, and occasionally wondered if one more adjustment was really necessary. More often than not, he was right.

He had a remarkable gift for making people feel welcome, valued, and genuinely at home. The memories he created will continue to be cherished by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Above all, Michael was a kind and generous man. He believed that knowledge was meant to be shared, friendships were meant to be cherished, and life was meant to be lived with gusto, curiosity, laughter, and gratitude. His wisdom, humor, and boundless enthusiasm enriched the lives of his family, friends, colleagues, and students.

Michael was preceded in death by his son, Michael Joseph Burke II, in 2022, and his daughter, Anne Hildegard Burke, in 2021. He is survived by his beloved wife, Collette Burke, and his devoted daughter, Mary Katherine Burke.

Dr. Michael Joseph Burke lived fully, loved deeply, and left the world better than he found it. His legacy endures in the physicians he trained, the patients he served, and all whose lives were forever enriched by knowing him.

Funeral Services

The Holy Rosary will be prayed at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, August 7, 2026, immediately followed by the Funeral Mass at 11 a.m. at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church. A reception and luncheon will follow in the Commons Room. Services will be live streamed and available to view by clicking on  the link below:

https://www.youtube.com/live/0upaEzFfYBQ

Memorial Contributions

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Michael’s memory to:
• KMUW Public Radio
• Kansas Humane Society
• Lesia Dipman Museum – Larned State Hospital Campus

Celebration of Life

A Celebration of Life honoring Dr. Michael Joseph Burke and Michael Joseph Burke II is planned for the fall of 2026. Additional details will be announced soon.