Obituary of Donald L. Burr

This week saw the ending of a special love story. On Saturday, April 7th, Phyllis M. Burr passed away quietly at home. A few days later on Monday, April 9th, the final chapter of their story was written when her husband of 69 years, Donald L. Burr, joined her on their final journey together when he passed peacefully at home.

Phyllis was born in Fort Erie, Ont. on December 4, 1931, to Agnes and Joseph Wilkinson. Agnes later relocated the family to a farm in Orangeville, New York, where she met the love of her life.

Don was born on November 17, 1926, in Orangeville, New York, to Helen and Leslie Burr.  He met Phyllis while working on her family farm. They were married on December 11, 1948, before he was deployed into the U.S. Army.  After basic training he was sent to Japan during the post war occupation.  Upon completion of his active duty he served 6 years in the Army reserves.

Don and Phyllis had 4 daughters: Barbara Wingate Hansen (Craig) of Monclova, Ohio, Marsha Martin (David), Donna Richardson, and Debbie Wagner (Bill).  They have 8 grandchildren, and 9 great grandchildren. 

Don is predeceased by his brother Carl and his sister, Joyce Plowe.  Phyllis is predeceased by her brother, William and sister, Adeline Cornell, and their infant great grandchild, Zoey Flint.

Don and Phyllis have resided in LeRoy for over 50 years.  Don worked for the Hall Baking Company for many years before taking a job at Kodak in the paper emulsifying division.  After retirement he became active in the LeRoy Food Pantry.  This service was recognized in 2000 when he was made LeRoyan of the Year, a major highlight in his life.  He was also active in the LeRoy American Legion for 50 years.

Phyllis was a housewife, who was an avid seamstress, knitter, and gardener.  She was also active in the First Presbyterian Church in LeRoy where she sang in the choir and participated in their knitting club which made sweaters for underprivileged children in third world countries.  She too was an active member of the American Legion Auxiliary.

A joint funeral will be held at the Falcone Family Funeral & Cremation Service located at 8700 Lake Street Road, LeRoy.  Visitation will be Thursday from 4 - 7 P.M.  Their funeral service will be at the funeral home on Friday at 12:00 P.M.  Interment will be in Machpelah Cemetery on North Street in LeRoy following the service.

In lieu of flowers the family is requesting donations be made to the First Presbyterian Church choir or the American Legion/Auxiliary.