Francis "Franny" C. Burke

Attorney Francis “Franny” C. Burke, Jr. 63 of Hudson, MA passed away unexpectedly at home on Tuesday, April 17, 2018. Franny leaves behind a sister Judy Palmer of Madison, CT; nephews Michael Palmer and his wife Sara, and Kevin Palmer; a grandniece, Lana Palmer; and many, many friends.  He was predeceased by his parents, Alice and Francis Burke, Sr.

Born June 18, 1954, Franny grew up in Berlin, MA where he was an EMT and member of the Berlin Rescue Squad & Fire Department. In his early teens, he achieved the rank of Eagle Scout in the BSA before becoming a Junior Assistant Scout Master of Troop I  in Berlin.  A love of the outdoors led him to split time between Hudson and the Mountains of Franconia, NH. He also enjoyed white water rafting in Maine, snowmobiling in Yellowstone National Park, watching NASCAR, and taking numerous cruises, culminating in his dream to cruise around the world in 2017.

After graduating from Fitchburg State University in 1976 and Suffolk University Law School in Boston in 1979 he spent four decades practicing law, representing clients in the area of criminal defense, motor vehicle violations, family law, civil litigation, and bankruptcy. He briefly worked for the Worcester County District Attorneys Office and then practiced in Bailey & Burke Law Offices in Clinton for 38 years. He was also a member of the Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Worcester County, and Clinton Bar Associations.

A few words could never encapsulate such a generous, witty, and funny man, but know this—Franny’s laugh shook rooms, his wisdom guided, and his kindness comforted many through hard times.  He had an innate ability to make everyone feel special.

Per Franny’s wishes, his family will forgo Calling Hours and Funeral Services and instead host a Celebration of Life later this year. For those wishing to send messages of condolence, please email:  RememberingFrannyBurke@gmail.com