Nick Burke

Our long time and very dear friend Nick Burke passed away at home in his sleep the week after our Lake O' the Pines Rallye.  The picture below was taken just days before on October 6, 2007.

R.I.P. Nick

In Memory of Nick

Nick and I got to the rally at nearly the same time. He and Marlene were just getting the trailer spotted when I got there. I set up next to them and plugged my electric cord into their trailer because the 110 plugs on that pedestal weren't working. We talked together a whole lot all rally long. Nick grew up in WV as did I. He never said anything about having any kind of health problems. He was in great spirits as he always was. It is still hard to believe that he isn't around any more!!!! He was really enjoying the Rally. It is wonderful that his last days on earth were fun days for him.
He will truly be missed.
Paul Valentine

When I last saw Nick he had the biggest grin on his face 'cause he had just won the new Arai helmet from Moto Liberty's drawing at the Rallye.  I'm sure it made this one of his best LOTP's ever.  That is the image of him I will always remember.  He was a good friend and he really welcomed me into the club from the get go.  He always made a point of congratulating me when I won something, or not.  Nick always seemed to have a smile on his face.  He was also a very good rider and did it without any depth perception because of having only one good eye.  The world lost a ray of sunshine last week and I'll really miss him and his big smile.
Take care my friend.
Bob Cox

I was riding back from LOP, laying along the tank out of the wind, keeping it steady at a bit above the limit.  I saw a caravan ahead and recognized it from the Rallye.  I was getting ready to wave as I went past when an arm stuck out with the thumb up.  He didn't know me from Adam in the mirror but he knew it was a biker and with all the camping gear on the back it had to be someone from LOP.  I went past, glanced quickly with a wave, and put my eyes back on the road - I'd seen that irrepressible grin and knew it was Nick.  Didn't know him as well as many folks but you can't mistake that smile - a terrific chap.  I wish I could be there when you get together and ride for him - I'm really sorry that I'll be away.
Best wishes to all his family and friends.
Chris Parry

We were shocked to read about Nick.  The rally was the first time we got to know him and was looking forward to talking with him next year.  He was a very nice and friendly person.  The world has lost a good man and friend.  We're thankful we got to spend a weekend with him.  Please give Marlene our sympathies.
Best regards,
Brian and Dian Slark

Michael and I are just shocked to hear the sad news about our dear friend, Nick.  Every year we would look forward to seeing Nick and Marlene at LOTP.  They always watched out for our spot and welcomed us with smiling faces and huge hugs.  We are just devastated over the news, as the last thing I remember was Nick saying they were planning a trip to Hot Springs to stay with us and explore the back roads here in Arkansas.  He was all smiles and that's how I want to remember him forever.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Marlene and Nick's Family.
Michael and Jessica Thomson

Nick was one of the first to make me feel welcome when I started hanging around all the damn Peckerheads. It was a privilege to know him.
Godspeed Nick.
Steve Ledbetter

That REALLY sucks. Nick was one of the coolest people I have ever known. My thoughts are with Marlene and his family.
Scooterjay

 


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