Cloyd Burke Show's Obituary
In Loving Memory of Cloyd “Burke” Show
It is with heavy hearts that we share the death of Cloyd “Burke” Show, 83, of Cornelius, N.C., on September 11, 2025. Burke passed away while sitting next to the love of his life, sipping a vodka tonic, smoking a cigar and listening to Motown while watching the sunset over Lake Norman.
That’s how we want to choose to remember him.
In reality, he died peacefully in a nursing home after prolonged health issues. Born in Uniontown, PA, on August 14, 1942, to Cloyd and Margaret Show, Burke lived a life defined by family and a love of sports, laughter and storytelling.
He shared a deep partnership of 54 years with his beloved wife, Melinda, who affectionally called him Burkie and lovingly, and admirably, took care of his daily needs in his final years. He was a devoted brother to Benn and was preceded in death by his parents, his sister-in-law, Claudia, and many of his lifelong friends.
A proud Navy veteran, Burke used the GI Bill to attend Ball State University and went on to build a successful 30-year career at 3M. Known for his sense of humor and competitive spirit, he famously scored a hole-in-one on the wrong green. Burke was a legendary storyteller, delighting everyone who ever had the pleasure of hearing him spin a tale. He had one of the great laughs of all time.
Burke loved golf and could often be found on the course. He was passionate about coaching his sons, Jon and Matt, and he cherished every moment with his grandchildren—Cooper, Madison, Parker, Patrick and Thomas—four of whom share his middle name. He also had a fondness for playing the lottery and had quite the lucky streak.
Burke’s family invites all who knew him to celebrate his life, remember his humor, spirit, and the joy he brought to people by raising a glass to the sky and having a “beep” in his memory.
He made the world a better place and he is so very missed by everyone who loved him. One final time for good measure: “A dozen rolls. A crock of bowls and chicken on toast. Asparagus and rur rur rur … make the French toast!”
Much love,
The Show Family
Services for Burke will be private and held at the convenience of his family.
Arrangements are in the care of James Funeral Home of Huntersville.
What’s your fondest memory of Cloyd?
What’s a lesson you learned from Cloyd?
Share a story where Cloyd's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Cloyd you’ll never forget.
How did Cloyd make you smile?