James "Jim" Burk

James Walter Burk, 80, of Charlevoix, formerly of Saginaw, passed away on Thursday, January 9, 2025, at his home with his loving family at his side. He was born on August 23, 1944, in Saginaw, the son of Walter and Leona (Datte) Burk. 

Jim graduated from Arthur Hill High School in Saginaw, and went on to earn an Associates Degree from Northwood University. Shortly after, he enlisted in the United States Air Force and served his country for four years. Upon returning home to Saginaw he worked several jobs before carving out a career at the wastewater treatment plant, eventually becoming a shift foreman. He was a longtime member of the American Legion post in Saginaw. Eight years ago, he and his wife Susan moved to Charlevoix, spending their winters in Naples, FL. 

Jim was always looking for his next project as he had many interests and was always willing to help others in any way he could. He loved deer hunting and looked forward to spending time every year with his extended family at their deer camp in Mio. He enjoyed fishing but especially enjoyed salmon fishing on Lake Michigan. He looked forward to his annual, week-long salmon fishing trip with his cousin Kevin Datte on Lake Michigan. Jim worked tirelessly to restore his sailboat Lasata and spent time in the summer vacationing on it with his wife every summer. He loved to entertain family and friends by cooking, baking and grilling for them. His latest passion was preparing meals on his flat top griddle and baking homemade bread. Jim was also a skilled woodworker, and had recently begun working with his CNC machine to create customized images on wood and acrylic. He was eager to learn something new every day and was able to do just about anything he set his mind to because of this trait. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. 

Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 44 years, Susan (Noey) Burk; four children, Lisa (Alan) Redding of Bloomington, MN, Michael (Morgan) Baker of Minneapolis, MN, Stephen (Maggie) Burk of Lebanon, TN, and Susan (Tony) Zikovich of Mt. Juliet, TN; and nine grandchildren, Alexander, Logan, Evan, Theodore, Harriet, Hallie, Katie, Ryan, and Anna. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; his grandson, Braden; and three sisters, Joan Burk, Jane Monge, Judith Lindsey.

Jim’s family would like to extend their utmost gratitude to special friends Ann Peterson, Lynn and Judy Sprout for their assistance and support during this difficult time. 

A celebration of Jim's life will take place in the summer of 2025. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. 

Arrangements are in the care of the Charlevoix Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign his online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com