James Burke was born and raised in Flatbush section of Brooklyn, NY, and attended Our Lady Help of Christians School, Power Memorial Academy, and Iona College. In the early 1960s, he served as a Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps and also worked as an account executive for Noranpac for 20 years.

In 1986, Jim joined the Michael Hogan Division 15 of the Ancient Order of Hibernians in Massapequa, NY and has served as President of the Division, Nassau County Board President, New York State District Director, New York State Organizer and New York State Treasurer, and currently serves as New York State Secretary. He was named “Hibernian of the Year” in 1987 and served as Co-Chair of the Nassau County Feis for six years. He is currently Chairman for Pipe Band competition.

Jim is also a member of the Tara Pipes and Drums in Massapequa for over 20 years, currently serving as the Drum Major. He also has been a delegate to the NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade for over twenty years and was Nassau County Aide to the NYC Grand Marshal in 2000.

Outside of the AOH, Jim is an Honorary Life Member of Knights of Columbus and Past Commandant of Marine Corps League. He is a parishioner of St. Rose of Lima Parish in Massapequa with his wife Patricia (nee McNally). He has four grown children, and nine grandchildren.