News Summary
Ken Burke, a respected businessman from Chattanooga and founder of Kubota Tag Distributors, Inc., has died at the age of 91. Known for his dedication to family values and community service, Burke leaves behind a legacy of ethics and support for local farmers. He is survived by his wife Peggy and three sons, along with numerous grandchildren. Memorial services will be held at Lane Funeral Home, with contributions requested for St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.
Chattanooga – Ken Burke, a prominent businessman and community supporter from Chattanooga, passed away at the age of 91 on May 10, 2025. His family was by his side during his final moments, reflecting the strong family values he instilled throughout his life.
Burke was well-known as the founder of Kubota Tag Distributors, Inc. and Cains Wrecker Service, enterprises he established with his wife, Peggy “Annie” Burke, and their three sons. Over 47 years, he built a legacy centered on family, ethics, and service to the community.
Throughout his career, Burke prioritized hiring family members and close associates, creating a work environment that felt more like a home than a workplace. His passions extended beyond business; he was dedicated to supporting local farmers and contributing positively to the Chattanooga community.
Outside of his business life, Burke enjoyed leisure activities such as golfing, playing cards, and spending time in the mountains with family and friends. He was known for sharing meals and moments with loved ones, reinforcing the importance of family in his personal values.
Survivors and Family
Ken Burke was married to Peggy “Annie” Burke for 66 years. He is survived by three sons, Eric (Stacy), Kenny (Cindy), and Tim (Diane) Burke, as well as several grandchildren including Amber (Philip) Bernier, Michelle Gray, Phil Burke, Valerie Burke, Jamie Wright, and Sara (Weston) Terry. Additionally, he leaves behind great-grandchildren Dakota, Mackenzie, Bentlee Bernier, Lynsie, Mollie, Raegan Burke, and Ellie (Shea) Cox, as well as great-great-grandchildren Hattie, Hampton Cox, and Wrynley Terry.
Burke was preceded in death by his parents, Felix Burke and Pauline Holder Stanley, and his brother, Bobby Burke. He is also survived by his sister Mary Alice (Bill) Orton, brother Richard Burke, sister-in-law Ann Burke, and lifelong friend Kenneth Carroll.
Memorial Services
A visitation will be held at Lane Funeral Home, Ashland Terrace on Wednesday from 4-8 p.m. and Thursday from 10-11 a.m. Funeral services are set for 11 a.m. on Thursday in the Coulter Chapel of Lane Funeral Home. The service will be officiated by Reverend Donnie Holder and Reverend Roger DeHart, followed by interment at Chattanooga Memorial Park.
Community Contributions and Acknowledgments
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or a charity of the donor’s choice. Special thanks are extended to Lifecare of Hixson and Hospice of Chattanooga for their compassionate care during Ken’s final days.
Pallbearers
Pallbearers for the funeral will include Eric, Kenny, Tim, and Phil Burke, along with Phillip and Dakota Bernier, reflecting the deep family ties that characterized Ken Burke’s life.
Lane Funeral Home is managing arrangements and is located at 601 Ashland Terrace, Chattanooga, TN 37415. Those wishing to express condolences or seek further information may reach out via phone at (423) 877-3524.
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Additional Resources
- Lane Funeral Home Tribute: Thomas Burke
- Times Free Press: Chattanooga Start-Up Company
- Chattanoogan: Kenneth Hamler Burke
- Chattanoogan: Susie H. Burke
- Times Free Press: Kubota Dealership Celebrates 42 Years
- Wikipedia: Chattanooga
- Google Search: Ken Burke
- Google Scholar: Business Ethics
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community Service
- Google News: Community Business Support
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
