Wilner Burke | |
|---|---|
 Burke in 1975 | |
| Born | May 12, 1908 Green Bay, Wisconsin, U.S. |
| Died | June 14, 1985 (aged 77) Green Bay, Wisconsin, U.S. |
| Occupation | Band director |
| Known for | Band director, Lumberjack Band |
Wilner Edward Burke (May 12, 1908 – June 14, 1985) was an American band director known for leading the Lumberjack Band, the team band for the Green Bay Packers. Burke, a native of Green Bay, Wisconsin, served as an alderman for the city for 21 years and served on the county board. However, he became known for his relationship with the Packers. Starting in 1939, he was put in charge of the Packers team band, which he had been part of since the early 1920s. From 1939 to 1981, Burke served as the band director and also coordinated all half-time entertainment. The band, which changed its name to the Green Bay Packers Band, played across the state at parades and other special events. Burke retired prior to the 1982 NFL season and died three years later, at the age of 77.