Dawn Ellen Burke

In Loving Memory of Dawn Ellen Burke

September 8, 1972 – December 28, 2025 (Age 53)

Dawn Ellen Burke, a vibrant spirit whose life reflected compassion, courage, and community, passed away on December 28, 2025, at the age of 53. Born on September 8, 1972, in Madison, Tennessee, Dawn grew up in Central Florida and graduated from Lake Howell High School in 1990 after receiving the school's First Commitment to Excellence Award. She started her college journey at Seminole Community College in 1990. She went on to earn both her Bachelor of Science (1996) and Master of Science (2000) from the University of Central Florida (UCF), dedicating much of her coursework toward a calling in child speech pathology.

Music and marching band were among Dawn’s greatest joys. She played Mellophone and French horn and Cello, performing with the Lake Howell High School Marching Band (1985–1990) continuing with the UCF Marching Band (1992–2000) and Magic Drum and Bugle Corp where she forged lifelong friendships and countless memories in the stands and on the field. When asked why she picked those instruments she would say that’s easy: “I asked which instruments are the hardest to play!”

Dawn’s work life was as varied and energetic as she was. She brought her trademark positivity to roles at Disney World, Universal, Wet ‘n Wild, SeaWorld, Red Lobster, Busch Gardens, and Outback Steakhouse. She taught math and science as an Osceola County teacher. Her courage and commitment to service shone brightest when she became a firefighter, first as a volunteer and then full-time with the Davenport Fire Department—a role she loved and approached with an unwavering heart.

An entrepreneurial force, Dawn founded Spotless Pup, a mobile dog grooming business, in 2010, turning her affection for animals into a beloved local service. She later worked remotely in help desk support for Holland America Line (2017–2025), where she combined technical skill with her gift for helping others. A devoted traveler, Dawn was a 3‑Star Mariner with over 200 hours of cruising on Holland America, savoring the sea’s horizons and the camaraderie of fellow travelers.

For recreation (and plenty of laughter), Dawn was an enthusiastic member of the Hash House Harriers, where she was affectionately nicknamed “Fence.” No matter the trail, Dawn’s presence meant encouragement, inclusion, and fun. She also ran with other Hash clubs in Tampa and St. Pete.

Above all, Dawn lived by the Hawaiian value of Ohana—family that extends beyond blood to encompass deep bonds of love, mutual support, responsibility, and community. She shared both joy and hardship with those around her. This spirit guided her relationships, her work, and the communities she helped build.

Survived By

Dawn is lovingly remembered by her parents, Tom and Linda Burke, along with extended family and friends whose lives she touched.

Celebration of Life

A Celebration of Life for Dawn will be held at Jim’s home, 1899 Tulip Lane, Wellington, FL, on January 17, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. (rsvp to sondraharnish88@gmail.com) Friends and family are invited to gather, share stories, and honor Dawn’s remarkable life.

Donations in Dawn’s Memory

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in memory of Dawn Ellen Burke to Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children via their donation page at https://give.orlandohealth.com/give/390303/#!/donation/checkout , or by mail to the Orlando Health Foundation, 3160 Southgate Commerce Blvd, Ste 50, Orlando, FL 32806 (please note “In memory of Dawn Ellen Burke”).

Dawn’s legacy is one of music and service, loyalty and laughter, courage and kindness. May we carry her spirit forward—lifting one another up, including everyone, and finding joy in the journey.

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