Hunter Edward Burke

Hunter Edward Burke, 18, of Merrimack, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, August 19, 2018, at Lahey Clinic, Burlington, MA surrounded by his family following a brief illness.

Born in Manchester, he is the son of Kathleen (Sweeney) Hilliard and the late Edward Burke, Jr. A 2018 graduate of Merrimack High School, Hunter played hockey from the time he was five through the duration of his high school career. Hunter has been employed at Market Basket for the past two years. Strong work ethic led Hunter to being promoted from bagger to cashier, and most recently, to the Produce Department.

A beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend, Hunter's family was paramount in his life. He cherished time spent with his siblings forging countless memories filled with laughter. Hunter's smile and positive attitude were infectious. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to his neighbors and work on projects around the house with his stepdad. Hockey was Hunter's greatest passion. In his spare time, Hunter loved to hang out with his friends, listen to all genres of music, and go on long drives. Hunter will be best remembered for his jovial sense of humor, love of family, and generous heart.

Hunter is survived by his mother and step-father, Kathy and Russell Hilliard of Merrimack; brother, John Hilliard; two sisters, Teagan Hilliard and Caitlyne Hebert; two nieces, Hayley and Maddilynn; grandparents, Helene Burke, and John and Maryanne Hilliard; girlfriend, Jessica Puleo; countless aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family and friends.

ARRANGEMENTS: His Visitation will be held in the Phaneuf Funeral Homes and Crematorium, 243 Hanover St., Manchester, on Thursday, August 23 from 4:00 to 8:00P.M. The Mass of Christian Burial will be Celebrated in the Our Lady of Mercy Church, 16 Baboosic Lake Rd., Merrimack, on Friday, August 24 at 10:00A.M. Committal to follow at Last Rest Cemetery, 7 Hillside Terrace, Merrimack. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made in Hunter's memory to Merrimack High School Hockey Booster Club, P.O. Box 1604, Merrimack, NH 03054, to be applied to a scholarship in his name.