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Donn M. Burgess
12/17/1930 — 12/11/2010
From Richand, WA, US | Born in High Point, NC
Donn M. Burgess
Donn M. Burgess born December 17, 1930 passed away unexpectedly Saturday December 11, 2010. Donn was raised in High Point, North Carolina; the only son of Don Sr. and Ethel Burgess. He attended Lenore Rhyne College and Johns Hopkins University where he received his degree in Mechanical Engineering. He did his graduate work at the University of Pittsburgh. Donn met Lillian at Fort Howard Baltimore while he was serving the Army. During their 57 years of marriage, they had a daughter, Donna, and two sons, Jim and Jeff. Donn treasured his family including his daughters-in-law Cindy and Melissa and especially his four grandchildren: Gavin, Lauren, Spencer, and Samantha. Donn brought his family to Richland in 1975 while working for Westinghouse. He retired in 1994 after 40 years of service in the Central Engineering group as a Westinghouse Fellow. In addition to woodworking and many outdoor hobbies, Donn was devoted to young people and education. Donn and Lillian spent many years supporting their childrens various activities and interests. Donn was heavily involved in the early formative years of the Tri City Soccer Association as a coach and referee. He was also very active in the local Boy Scouts of America especially troop 227. Both Donn and Lillian were committed to the Christ the King youth group and the SEARCH groups throughout the 1980s. Often the teens of the church could be found decorating the Christmas Tree or holding New Years parties at the Burgess home. A funeral mass for Donn will be held at Christ the King parish on Saturday December 18, at 1:00pm. In lieu of flowers, donations in Donns name would be welcomed by the Christ the King youth group and library. Please contact the parish office 509-946-1675 for donation arrangements.
I just found out about Don’s Passing today! I had the pleasure of befriending Donn as a customer. I helped him at the Mini Storage. He came in sick and weak after his wife came home from recooperating from hip surgery. I was worried about him so finally persuaded him to go home. I had a co-worker follow us as we safely got Donn home. On our little trip to his home, and throughtout the morning – learned quite a bit about Donn. He told me about his father’s connection with Nascar’s beginnings including Richard Petty & Johnson – his father was a mechanic for them. He also shared how they used to race in the old tobacco sheds. He was very proud of his children and grandchildren. He loved his wife very much and cared about her immensely! What a sweet man – I am in shock that he passed! My condolensces to the family…
So sorry to read of Don’s passing. I worked with him in my very first engineering position with the Core Design and Test Management group many years ago in the Federal building. He was a real gentleman and a respected engineer. My sympathy to his family.
We are so sorry for your loss. Donn was a special person to everyone that knew him as is the rest of the Burgess family. Our condolences to you all.
Linda/Phil Brackenbury
I was very sorry to hear about the passing of Uncle Donn. I remember his kind ways, his soft manner and sense of humor when he visited us in Dundalk. You are in my prayers.
We have fond memories of you and Donn from the prayer group and especially remember a teaching he gave. Please accept our sincere condolences and best wishes to you and your family.
Mike and Joanne Simmons
We were very sorry to hear of Donn’s passing. I remember his constant presence at Tornado soccer matches. Our thoughts are with you.
Lillian and family our prayers and heart go out to all of you. We have known you for over 30 years and Donn will always have a special place in our hearts. He was a very special and kind man.
Tony and Debbie Belsito
Lil and Family: We are mindful of the many years and events we shared as backyard neighbors and good friends .. holiday dinners, fishing trips, minding each other’s children, and much more. Donn was a remarkable person and greatly appreciated for his kindness, intellect, and family orientation. His total devotion and care for his family with God’s help was his top priority. He definitely will be missed, but always in our hearts. With love,
Dear Lilian, Jim and Jeff,
Sending my love and in a beautiful suite of memories. You’re in my thoughts and prayers.
Love and Hugs,
Teresa
Dear Lil, Donna, Jim & Jeff,
I have fond memories of those years in Search and getting to know and love Donn & Lil. I will always remember hugging Donn who was so much taller than me. And hugging Lil who was so much shorter. I hope to hug Lil again soon. Take care & stay close to each other during these holidays. vince oxox
We were sorry to hear of your loss. Our fondest memories are Thanksgiving parties together. Great times!
Julie
Please know that you are all in my prayers during this deeply sad time. Donn had a loving presence in this world and I know he is at peace with our Lord.
Dear Lillian, Donna, Jim, & Jeff,
I am so very sorry for your loss. I have such fond memories of Donn and your family and always enjoyed seeing Donn and Lillian at BINGO when I would visit my parents.
A good and faithful servant has returned home. God bless you, Donn Burgess.
Fondly,
Jamie
Dear Lillian & Family~
I was so sorry to hear of Don’s passing… I remember him at the antiques centered events we all attended as not only the tallest man there, but the man with the biggest smile!
When my mother passed a few years ago, I received a card, from a friend the words I will never forget:
Death leaves a heartache
No one can heal;
Love leaves a memory
No one can steal
Irish Tombstone
With deepest sympathy,
Ric Bricker
One of the highlights of the night was when it was Donn’s turn at charades. Times I will cherish and never forget. He always was the other dad just over the fence. I will miss him greatly.
Craig Martucci and family.
Aunt Lil,Donna,Jim,and Jeff,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Fond memories of Uncle Donn, and how he helped me through a time of great sorrow are in my heart. He was loved and will be missed.
Rick and Pam O.
Guestbook for
Donn M. Burgess