Loy Burke

Ivan (Loy) Burke, age 80, passed away on March 21, 2025. Loy was born on October 14, 1944, to Alvis and Jane Burke in Wheeler, Texas. He spent his elementary years on the family farm in Mobeetie, Texas. Later, he moved to Liberal, Kansas, where he met his best friend, Patricia (Pat) Aylward. They were married on May 19, 1962, sharing a deep and enduring bond built on dedication and hard work. Throughout their 63 years of marriage, they remained committed to one another, facing every challenge together, which only strengthened their love over time. While living in Liberal, they welcomed two children into their family, Terena and Don. Shortly after their marriage and the start of their family, they relocated to Buffalo, Oklahoma, where they eventually partnered with friends Bill and Kaye Harmon to run a grocery store. This partnership proved very successful, leading them to purchase another store. While Bill and Kaye stayed in Buffalo, Pat and Loy moved to Laverne, Oklahoma, where they made their home. Loy was a hardworking individual who loved the grocery business. He was known for his unwavering integrity and honesty, always choosing to be a straight shooter.

Loy was also a great friend who genuinely cared for others, often helping those in need anonymously, driven by his kind heart rather than a desire for recognition. Loy retired at the age of 60, a decision that brought him immense joy and fulfillment. He and Pat truly enjoyed their retirement, spending time in Pendaries and South Texas, where they made many new friends. They traveled in their RV and took some incredible trips, including a visit to the Masters, a dream come true for Loy. His retirement was filled with a passion for golf, and he took every opportunity to play. If he wasn't golfing, he could often be found mowing the lawn, reflecting his active and fulfilling lifestyle. A devoted Christian and family man, Loy's love for his family knew no bounds. He was always there to help and care for his loved ones and took immense pride in his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Loy and Pat spent countless hours attending their grandchildren's school events and were recently blessed to spend time with their great-grandchildren. It was common for Loy to be found bragging about his family, which spoke volumes about his deep love and pride for them.

Loy is preceded in death by his parents, Alvis and Jane Burke; his brothers, Alvis Delton, Arthur Don, and Earl Roy Burke; his sister, Ouida Godwin; his other brother, Buster Keeton; and his son, Don Loy Burke.

Loy is survived by his wife, Pat Burke, of the home; Terena and husband, Andy Bridwell of Beaver, Oklahoma; daughter-in-law Melissa and husband, Junior Davis; grandchildren, Ellie and husband, Adam Pryor of Woodward, Oklahoma, and their children Elsie and Anderson, Jacob and his wife Anna Bridwell and children, Rigley, Jovie, and Jameson of Beaver, OK, J'Dena and her husband Hayden Dolin and children, Kipton, Beaux, and Kase of Buffalo, Oklahoma and Marisa and husband Angel Molina of Hennesey, Oklahoma.

The family suggests memorials to the Laverne Golf Course or to Doby Springs Golf Course.