Edward Stuart Burch's Obituary
Big Rapids- Edward Stuart Burch, 79, of Big Rapids, passed away Friday, December 18, 2015, with his loving family by his side. Edward was born January 1, 1936 to Vernon and Myrtle Burch in Big Rapids. He graduated from Big Rapids High School in 1954 and went on to obtain a civil-engineering degree from Michigan State University. After college, Ed served in the United States Army, stationed at Camp Century in Greenland. While working with the Bureau of Public Roads in 1963, he married Dorothy Buckeye, in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Ed was an active member of the Big Rapids community and St. Mary Parish. He was very proud of being an alumni of Big Rapids High School and served on the alumni board for many years. He was also a 50 year member of the Knights of Columbus Council #1300 in Big Rapids and a 4th degree Knight in Assembly #2773. Ed took delight in spending time with his children and grandchildren. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and watching Michigan State Spartan football. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy, and children; Mark (Maria) of Clinton Township, Theodore (Alison) of Mason, Joseph (Deana) of North Augusta, SC, Thomas (Sara) of Plover, WI; Jeanne (Dan) Rice of Lake Leelanau, Margaret (Jason) Bomia of Marshall, and Charles (Diana) of Jennison. He is also survived by 23 grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, and several brothers and sisters-in-laws. Ed was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Theodore and Vernon. The Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, Dec. 23, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Big Rapids, with Father Michael Burt celebrant. Interment will follow in the Mt. Carmel Cemetery. Visitation will take place Tuesday, December 22, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, with a Rosary to be recited at 7:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary School or the Big Rapids High School Alumni Association.
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