Burke graduated from
West Orange High School and
Colby College, took physical training courses at
Columbia University, and attended
Knute Rockne's coaching school at
Bucknell University. In 1925, Burke became the football coach at the
Vermont Academy. After and undefeated 1930 season, he was named freshman football and varsity basketball coach at the University of Vermont. In 1932, he took over as varsity coach following the departure following the departure of
David L. Dunn. After two poor football seasons, Burke submitted his resignation effective the end of the basketball season. He returned to New Jersey, where he served as athletic director of Carteret Prep School and the
Morristown School. His son,
John H. Burke Jr., was a standout athlete at Morristown. ==Head coaching record==