Joe Doe
Like the Biblical Thomas, Mr. Burke was not one to blindly follow. He needed proof from his friends, enemies, and leaders. Once you earned Tom’s friendship and trust, you had a boon companion for life. Tom was tenacious and fiercely loyal. I cannot recall him picking a fight, but once a confrontation began, he was in it for the long haul. This was apparent in many aspects of his life. He was a champion for his wife Donna’s healthcare needs, spending long hours on the phone making certain she got the best treatment available. He discussed and dissected arguments his daughters had keeping them safe and driving them crazy. As a union representative, he was invaluable. He was well versed in the length and breadth of the contract as well as the clauses that were routinely discussed by both sides.
Besides his penchant for verbal sparring Tom was excellent as his job. He has been a stagehand for many years when I got to know him and had worked at a number of venues. He was a well like man and a well-respected front light operator.
Many times, when people set out to eulogize a person, they spend a great deal of time recounting the work a person did and the accolades he or she received professionally. Working at this level and for the length of time that tom’s career spans assumed a certain level of professionalism and excellence. And it was true. Tom was both professional and excellent. But I do not believe for one moment that these were his best qualities. I hardly think anyone liked him because “That guy could sure hang a box boom” or “There’s no guy I’d rather go to the false ceiling with.” His job did not define him; his humanity did.
Since the news of Tom’s passing was released, many people have expressed their condolences. The folks reaching out are not just stagehands. It seems Tom touched many lives. Several ushers at the theatre shared anecdotes about his kindness and decency. People have reached out to say they were glad to have worked with and known Tom. Outside of the industry, I know personally that my Godfather was upset to hear of Tom’s death. Not only did he know of Mr Burke through my stories from work, but he was also the beneficiary of some of Tom’s quiet good deeds during the Covid pandemic.
Tom leaves behind 2 beautiful daughters, a small group of close friends, his union brothers, and a circle of acquaintances. Some of those acquaintances may surprise people. Tom was once referred somewhat derisively as the Patron Saint of 8th Avenue. As Tom made his way up from Penn Station, he had a number of “regulars” that he handed a little bit of cash or food and exchanged pleasantries. These small efforts that happened every day were just ingrained in Tom. His integrity and empathy were always at the fore. I believe that’s why many people were attracted to him and were truly saddened to hear of his death.
We will all miss Tom and keep the memory of his kindness and help. We can best honor him by trying to be a little like him.