The MHSIBCA is saddened by the news of the passing of a member of our Hall of Fame, Harry Edward Burkey Jr. (March 6, 2022). Known to many as the “Bowl Swami” Harry worked to make High School Bowling a Varsity Sport in 1989. He was the 2nd president of the MHSIBCA. He was an unforgettable character, and he gave so much of himself to create a platform for our youth bowlers in high school to compete.
“Thank you, Harry the “Maestro”, your efforts are most appreciated.
Obituary
Harry Edward Burkey Jr.
Grosse Pointe Woods 11/10/37 – 3/6/22 – A father, husband, educator, actor, film maker, but most of all, a man who cared about others. That was Harry Burkey. His sincere desire was to give back to our world by helping others gain confidence to move forward in their life.
He also ran youth bowling leagues. While schools had bowling teams, bowling wasn’t considered a varsity sport. After he retired from teaching he began working to make bowling a high school varsity sport. Harry developed competitive tournaments for middle school and junior varsity bowlers around the State. He founded the Michigan High School Bowling Coaches Association, serving as vice president/president for five years.
Remembrance donations can be made to Grosse Pointe Theatre, 315 Fisher Rd. Grosse Pointe and The Helm, 158 Ridge Rd. Grosse Pointe Farms.
