Born Thomas Burke in Tipperary, Ireland on November 19, 1891 he was the son of Patrick Burke and Mary Nagle. His family came to the United States and settled in Providence, Rhode Island and heard two Passionist priests give a parish mission. He professed his vows on January 21, 1914 and received the name Athanasius and was ordained on June 14, 1919. In early years he was stubborn. Still he served twice as a Vicar and preached parish missions and retreats. In his later years he often wished to let others tell him how to fulfill his numerous responsibilities so that he could faithfully keep the Passionist Rule. He lived at Holy Cross Preparatory Seminary in Dunkirk, New York but when the new monastery at West Hartford was opened Father Burke was assigned there. He was almost blind and served as a confessor for priests. He died some time after he fell off the twenty foot roof in the back of the monastery when he was taking a routine walk route which he used for his frequent exercise and relaxation.
Birth Date:
November 19, 1891
Profession Date:
January 21, 1914
Ordination Date:
June 14, 1919
Death Date:
December 4, 1953
Religious Name:
Athanasius of the Seven Dolors Burke