Patrick Sullivan Burke

Patrick Sullivan Burke was an American actor who is best known for his roles in Little House on the Prairie, Bedknobs and Broomsticks, and Bonanza.

Personal and Family Life

Born as Merrill Levine Buchert on May 20, 1917, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Patrick hailed from European descent. He returned to study in Hungary and Romania during his youth, where his family had notable backgrounds, including an influential Rabbi and a revered figure among Gypsies. After enduring hardships during World War II, including internment in concentration camps, he finally returned to the U.S. in 1947, adopting the stage name Patrick Sullivan Burke, a nod to his new beginnings.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Burke became known for his love of performing, particularly in the Hollywood community. He was dedicated to entertaining at the Motion Picture Country Home, where he hosted shows and brought together aging actors and actresses, keeping the spirit of Vaudeville alive. His linguistic skills, especially in Yiddish, were a point of pride, and he enjoyed connecting with others through the language.

Death and Legacy

Patrick Sullivan Burke passed away on January 3, 1994, in Las Vegas, Nevada, under undisclosed circumstances. His legacy lives on through the many performances he gave and the joy he brought to his fellow artists in Hollywood. The impact he had on the community and the celebrations of Yiddish culture remain a testament to his life’s work.

Filmography