BURKI, Willy Burki

It is with profound sadness that we announce the loss of RCMP Staff Sergeant (retired), Willy Burki. He was at last post on August 19th, 2025 and passed away peacefully at the age of 83, surrounded by his loving family.

He was a pillar of his family, a gentle teacher, and a man who found joy in the simple, beautiful moments of the natural world.

Born in Bern, Switzerland, to Dora and Wilhelm Burki, Willy built a life around his deepest values: love, patience, and the importance of passing knowledge to the next generation. While he had a long and distinguished career as an RCMP Staff Sergeant, his true legacy lies in the memories he created with his family, especially his grandchildren.

Willy was the quintessential grandfather, finding his greatest happiness in the company of his grandchildren. He taught them not just how to fish, but how to sit quietly and wait for the perfect moment. His fishing stories, always with a lesson attached, are treasured tales that will be passed down for years to come.

Willy also had a passion for monarch butterflies. He would spend time with his grandchildren in his garden, showing them how to find a caterpillar, watch the incredible transformation, and finally, release the delicate monarch. He taught them about the cycles of life and the importance of protecting the small, wondrous creatures of the world. Through these simple acts, he showed them that love and patience can bring about the most beautiful transformations.

Willy was a well-travelled man; he and his wife Eva-Liisa were able to travel to all 10 provinces and all 3 territories in his life, and even travelled to his birthplace, Bern, Switzerland and got to experience his childhood home again.

Willy is survived by his wife of 37 years Eva-Liisa, His children Brad & Kim, Tobi & Irv, Todd & Tracey, Jen & David, His grandchildren Amanda & Kyle, Corbin & Boey, Codey & Tielle, Cashton, Colton, Bailey, Jayson and Cassidy & Tyler and his great grandchildren, Jett, Elle, Koah, and Kaden, brothers Hans & Lynne, and Heinz & Jane, and nieces Laura, Tania and nephew David, and last but not least, his beloved dog Charlie.

Willy is predeceased by his first wife, Grace and his parents, Dora and Wilhelm Burki

There will be a celebration of life held in Willy’s honour on September 28th, starting at 1 pm at Current River Community Centre (450 Dewe Avenue, Thunder Bay). We welcome everyone with open arms to celebrate Willy and his legacy among family and friends.