Patricia K. Burke, Xavier University graduate, dies at 78

Patricia “Patty” K. Burke, a graduate of Xavier University and a longtime worker in Cincinnati government, died on October 28, 2026, after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s, according to funeral home information. She was 78.

Growing Up in Norwood and Breaking Barriers at Xavier

Born on February 6, 1948, Patty grew up in Norwood, Ohio, raised by her parents, Glen and Connie LaGrange, alongside her six brothers and sisters. She graduated from Regina High School before enrolling at Xavier University.

In 1970, she became the first woman graduate of Xavier’s day school. She later earned both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree from the institution, eventually receiving an honorary doctorate.

Before beginning her career in municipal government, she taught at St. Mark’s School in Evanston. She stepped away from the classroom following the birth of her twin daughters, Nora and Tara, and later welcomed her son, Mike.

Decades of Service in Cincinnati Municipal Government

Patty spent years working within Cincinnati city departments, leaving a distinct mark on local administration. Her government career included staffing two Cincinnati mayors, Ken Blackwell and Tom Brush.

She also served in the City Personnel Department and worked as the curriculum coordinator at the Police Academy. She ultimately retired from Cincinnati Water Works.

Outside of her professional life, she enjoyed singing, planting flowers, and spending time with her family.

Surviving Family and Memorial Services in Cincinnati

She is survived by her husband of 56 years, Tim Burke, and her three children: Nora Burke Wagner, joined by husband Chris; Tara Burke, joined by husband Rob Lands; and Mike Burke. She also leaves behind six grandchildren: Collin Wagner, Devin Lands, Brendan Lands, Ryan Wagner, Claire Wagner, and Caroline Lands.

In addition to her immediate family, she is survived by her sisters Bonnie Wall, Mary Behan, Lori Smith, and her brother John LaGrange. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Terry Czernick, and her brother Rob LaGrange.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, November 8, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Geo. H. Rohde Funeral Home is located at 3183 Linwood Avenue. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:00 PM on Monday, November 9, 2026, at Bellarmine Chapel on the Xavier University campus, the same location where she and Tim were married 56 years ago.

Family Requests Donations for Research and Voting

The family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be directed toward medical research and educational support. Contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or to the Patricia Burke – Glen LaGrange Scholarship Fund at Xavier University.

Family members noted that Patty would be most pleased if well-wishers honored her memory by exercising their right to vote on or before November 3.