Patrick Matthew Burk, age 58, of Shepherd, passed away Saturday, September 12, 2026, at U of M Hospital with his family by his side. Pat was born September 27, 1967, the son of Lee and Marie (Smith) Burk Sr.
Pat was a hardworking man who enjoyed spending time with his family and being outdoors. He loved going for rides in the side-by-side with family and cruising around in his old Cheyenne Camper Special. He took great pride in the truck and enjoyed showing it off at car shows.
One of Pat’s more unique pastimes was what he and his stepfather, Mike, called “chasing the train.” The two would ride in their vehicles, following trains and communicating back and forth along the way. It was something they enjoyed doing together and created many special memories.
Pat enjoyed deer hunting and fishing and had a collection of John Deere garden tractors. He also loved driving truck and spent time driving for his brother Lee and helping out on Lee’s farm.
Pat married Stephanie Jo Nelson on August 12, 2000. Together, they shared more than 26 years of marriage and raised their two daughters, Allison and McKenzie.
Pat is survived by his wife, Stephanie; daughters, Allison and McKenzie; father and stepmother, Lee and Sue Burk Sr.; four siblings, Thresa (Tim) Bailey, Lee Burk Jr., Richard (Amy) Burk, and Jon (Julia) Burk; uncle and aunt, Richard and Sharon Smith; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and close friends.
Pat was preceded in death by his mother, Marie; stepfather, Mike Dancer; and infant brother, Jeffrey.
Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held Friday, September 18, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Berry Funeral Home in Shepherd, with Reverend Bill Chu officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made on behalf of Pat to the family.
