Born in New York City, Rourke attended the University of Maryland, receiving a bachelor of arts degree in 1953.

He then worked briefly in the Washington, D.C. law firm of Keogh, Carey, and Costello as an associate attorney before beginning his public service career in 1960.

[1] Rourke began his civilian government service as administrative assistant to Republican Congressman John R. Pillion of New York.

After President Ford lost his bid for re-election in 1977, Rourke serve on the White House Transition Team.

[1] On September 27, 1985, President Reagan nominated Rourke to replace Verne Orr who was retiring after five years as Secretary of the Air Force.

[5] After leaving the Air Force, Rourke and his family operated a real estate business in Annapolis, Maryland.