We are greatly saddened to announce the peaceful passing of Dennis Burke on October 13, 2025, at the Ottawa General Hospital after a long illness. Dennis was predeceased by his parents Bryan and Frances Burke (nee Wilson) and by his sisters Kathleen (2023) and Teresa (2021). Left to mourn are his sister Christine Tammadge (John), and brother Stephen Burke (Marian). Much loved uncle to Beth Malloch-Leclair (Marcel), Cameron Burke (Genevieve), David Tammadge (Flor), Mary Tammadge (Alex), and Fraser Burke (Ananda). He will be fondly remembered by his great nephews and nieces Liam, Mattaya, Hailey, Richy, Cassidy, Emily and Devin.
Dennis grew up here in Ottawa and after losing both parents in his late teens charted his own course with an adventurous and independent lifestyle. He completed a Fine Arts degree at York University in Toronto where he fell in love with pottery. He followed this up with a Bachelor of Education degree at Queen’s University in Kingston. Dennis then started his whirlwind International Teaching career in warm Kuwait followed by multiple stints in Bahrain, Singapore, the Dominican Republic and China. In between these overseas teachings he worked in Ottawa as an instructor and facilitator at various pottery studios including the Nepean Arts Centre, the Glebe Centre and the Almonte Pottery Studio. He also worked at the Perley Health Centre in the senior arts program.
Many years ago, Dennis purchased a small barn in the country near Perth where he set up a pottery studio which he enjoyed as a place for retreat.
His artistic talents in pottery and sketching were enjoyed by many, including his nieces and nephews and their children and influenced their love of the recreational arts.
Special thanks to Dr. McCurdy and the Hematology staff at the Ottawa General Hospital for their compassionate care.
Family and friends are invited to Beechwood, Funeral, Cemetery and Cremation Services (280 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa), for a Visitation on Thursday, October 16, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, October 17, 2025, in Beechwood’s Sacred Space at 10 a.m., followed by an Interment at Beechwood Cemetery.
For those wishing, the service can also be viewed via livestream. Donations to Doctors without Borders or the Ottawa Hospital Foundation in memory of Dennis would be appreciated. Messages of condolence may be left at www.beechwoodottawa.ca
Digital Guestbook
Pegi Jenkins
Sophie Gabard
Dennis was a generous and kind person. He enjoyed nature and took inspiration from it to create beautiful pieces. We had a good time sharing meals and talking about various subjects.
Matt Lawson
I worked with Dennis in Bahrain and accompanied him on an epic trip to Sri Lanka back in 2012. I am deeply saddened to hear of his passing and I offer my sincere condolences to his family. Dennis was a generous, kindhearted person who never had a bad thing to say about anyone. As a colleague, his sense of humor, especially his means of delivery, was always appreciated. I have nothing but cherished memories and lots of laughs when I think of the time I knew him. Rest well buddy.
Penelope Kokkinos
To Family and friends
Dear Dennis
I will miss your smile
And your eternal optimism
Thank you for your presence in my life.
Boisonnault Family
As the 'Boisonnault cousins' gathered together to watch the livestream of Dennis's funeral, we were so moved by the profound love expressed for him by Beth and Christine. We all were so fond of Dennis, with his easy nature, sense of humour, and keen interest in others. We were impressed with how he lived life to the fullest, exploring the world, sharing and teaching his artistic talents, always with a deep connection to his family. As said in the beautiful homily, Dennis will be with us in our hearts always.
doug moir
deepest condolences to the family. it is clear by everyone’s comments that dennis was always dennis.. the same kind hearted person with all who were blessed to know him. his calm and gentle demeanour was always felt and appreciated when i was as around him, he had a natural ability to change a mood without even trying, always bringing perspective back with his positive attitude and quirky sense of humour… i first did a workshop he put on back in the 90’s, and later went on to work with him at almonte potters guild and nepean visual arts centre… he will be remembered fondly, and the thought of him will always bring a smile to my face.. thank you dennis, until we meet again.. doug
Father David Perrin
Dear Christine and John: I was very saddened to hear of the passing of your dear brother and brother-in-law Dennis; and very sorry I was unable to attend the funeral services. Please be assured of my ongoing prayers for you and your family during this difficult time. My sincerest condolences, Dave
Irfan Mirza
Dennis, you are missed by all your high school friends. I’m grateful I got to speak to you in August thanks to Peter.
My deepest sympathy to the family. I have many many fond memories of Dennis, from 1985-2003 especially. I owe Dennis a debt of gratitude for my employment at Perley Health where I worked for 20 + years. Rest in peace dear Dennis.