John "Jack" G. Burkel, 83, Suamico, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Thursday, July 9, 2026. Jack was the middle of three sons to Arthur and Pearl (Kane) Burkel. He was born February 17, 1943.

Jack graduated from Green Bay West High School. He married the love of his life Delores "Dee" Reed on July 1, 1961. They just celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary. After school Jack started at Asphalt Inc. which began his lifelong success in the construction business. When Asphalt Inc. went out of business, he started AMI Paving and Sealing Co. After a few years he took on a partner and created Great Lakes Paving and Construction. Based in Suamico, Jack and Bob Pratsch took on more partners and became Action Enterprises, Inc. Many successful years followed and after a buyout he took a hiatus from construction. Then years later Jack and Dee started Burkel Construction, and at one time or another all five of their children and some grandkids were involved with the business. After selling the business to his son Bob, he decided to "slow down" and enjoyed life with Dee at their home in Pulaski and snow birding in Florida. Jack was deeply devoted to his Catholic Faith and was a member of SS. Edward and Isidore Parish.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Delores "Dee" and his beloved family: Mark and Renee Burkel and their children, Rachel (Rick) Niespodzany, Nicole Lambert, and Ashley (Devonte) Richards; Jim and Laurie Burkel and their children, Sarah (Dan) Fama and Kristen Burkel; Bob and Michelle Burkel and their children, Alexis, Hayden, and Caitlyn Burkel; Sheila and Pat McDermid and their children, Brandon, Brock (Shannon), Drew (Lauren) and Ryan McDermid; Dave and Kim Burkel and their children, Brian (Kelsey) Burkel, Adam Burkel, and Amanda (Nate) VanderHeiden; great-grandchildren, Mia and Elin Niespodzany, Sienna and Easton Lambert, Skylar, Izabella, Matius and Heze Richards, Jack, Margot, and Graham Fama, Blair McDermid, Barrett and Cal Burkel, and baby girl VanderHeiden due in September. Jack is further survived by his brother, Ken (Linda); niece Mary Kay (Tim) Collins; nephews, Kevin (Angela) Burkel, Nick Burkel, and Grant Burkel; brothers-in-law, Tom (Barb) VanAmber, Dave VanAmber; sister-in-law, Anita Van Amber; last and definitely not least his four-legged buddy, Pal.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Pearl, brother, Carl (Donna) Burkel; in-laws, Dorothy and Roy VanAmber.

Jack cherished the lifelong friendships that he had with former employees and friends throughout the years. While a huge loss for our family Heaven is gaining a one of a kind in Jack.

Friends are invited to gather with the family for a celebration of Jack's life at SS. Edward & Isidore Parish, 3667 Flintville Rd., from 9am to 11am on Saturday, July 18; Mass to follow at 11am with Fr. Scott Valentyn. Burial will be at SS. Edward & Isidore Cemetery with a luncheon to follow. PLEASE NO FLOWERS. To send online condolences, please go to www.BlaneyFuneralHome.com.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Katy and Holly of Home Instead for the care given to Jack over the last several months. Also thank you to the Unity Hospice team and Blaney Funeral Home for the care provided to the family.