Windjammer Barefoot Cruises founder Michael Burke dies at 89
Photo Credit: Mike Burke, founder of Windjammer Barefoot Cruises, in a 1972 file image. Burke died in Miami, Florida, on Sunday, May 19, 2013, at 89. Miami Herald
Skift Take
Michael Burke loved the sea, and was passionate about his beloved Windjammer Barefoot Cruises. From the sound of it, so were many of the line's passengers.
Capt. Michael Burke sailed through life with his unending spirit and romantic outlook, touching the lives of many with his cruise empire, Windjammer Barefoot Cruises.
His own journey came to and end early Sunday, when the 89-year-old succumbed to pneumonia at his Miami Beach home.
With his colorful character and grandiose disposition, Burke was an unforgettable personality for the legions of passengers who travelled on his ships.
Born May 13, 1924 in Bradley Beach, N.J., Burke was the son of Russian Jewish immigrants. He spent a childhood by the sea, cultivating a love that would follow him until his final days.
Straight out of high school, Burke enlisted in the U.S. Navy during World War II and spent three years serving on a submarine.
After the war, Burke came to Miami Beach.
"He just loved it," daughter Susan Burke said.
Burke started a business painting houses. That's where he met June Tuttle, his wife of 57 years.
For years, the legend was Burke got his sta
