Joel T. Burke

Joel T. Burke, 45, of Pembina, ND passed away Sunday, September 13, 2015, at Altru Hospital, Grand Forks, ND. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, September 19, 2015, at 10:00 a.m. at the Pembina School Gymnasium, Pembina, ND. Visitation will be held on Friday, September 18th from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. with a 7:30 p.m. prayer service at the Assumption Catholic Church, Pembina, ND. Burial will be held in the Pembina Cemetery.
Joel Thomas Burke was born March 8, 1970, at Cavalier, ND to Thomas and Beverly (Monette) Burke. He grew up and attended school in Pembina, graduating in 1988. After attending UND for two years, he then worked for Cosley Farms for several years.
On January 23, 1996, he married Kristie Wilkins Newton and together they made their home in Pembina raising their two boys Tyler and Kelly. Their family grew when daughter MacKenzie was born August 30, 1999, followed by son Justin on May 8, 2003.
He began his trucking career in 1999 when he bought his first truck and trailer and he went "over the road" for S&S Transport. After he sold his truck and trailer he began driving for Northdale Oil, where he continued to work until the time of his death.
Joel enjoyed watching NASCAR, football, basketball as well as BMX racing as both a spectator and participant. He was always willing to offer a helping hand to anyone in need. He had a passion for music and enjoyed sharing his beautiful voice with everyone. He was also a fantastic drummer.
Survivors include his children: Tyler Newton (fiancée, Autumn Hanson), Larimore, ND, Kelly Newton, Grand Forks, ND, MacKenzie and Justin Burke, both of Grand Forks; grandchildren: Tynleigh Rose Hanson and Brantly Jaxx; parents, Tom and Beverly Burke, Pembina, ND; sister, Kimberly (Michael) Kemp and their son, Brad, Grayslake, IL; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Preceding him in death were his grandparents: Leo and Maude Burke, John and Betty Monette; uncle, Howard Burke; aunt, Geraldine Bares.