Roger E. Burdin

HOWARD -Roger Burdin died peacefully on Tuesday morning, July 14, 2015 at his beloved farm’s homestead on Burdin Hill Road in Avoca, N.Y. (Town of Howard.) He was blessed to be able to take his last breath in the same home in which he drew his very first.
Roger was born February 19, 1932 to Clarence and Lilah Burdin in the Town of Howard, N.Y. He was predeceased by his parents and by his brothers, Sterling Burdin and John Burdin. He is survived by his wife of nearly 56 years, Beverly Ann (Crocker) Burdin. Also surviving are his children, Rhonda Burdin Bulkley and Darryl Burdin, both of Burdin Hill Road in Avoca, N.Y. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren Brett Bulkley, Brandon Bulkley, Andrew Burdin, Reaghan Bulkley, Aaron Burdin and Brittany Burdin as well as three great-grandchildren – Anthony, Colton and Carter. He was also excited to receive the news of an expected fourth great-grandchild due in February 2016 around the time of his birthday.
Roger was a life-long farmer, known and loved by many. He was a dairyman until 1978 and then went on to retire from the Steuben County Highway Department in 1997. Post-retirement he worked for Carquest in Hornell delivering auto parts locally, along with his “story of the day.”
Roger served his country, provided for his family, and was well-loved by family and friends. He was always quick to tell anyone about his family – his first and foremost concern and love. He was a life-long member of the Howard Union Church. Roger served his Country from October 13, 1953 to October 12, 1955 and was honorably discharged as a Corporal, having served with the C Battery 602nd AAA Gun Battalion in Fort Meade, Maryland. He was a founding member of the Howard Volunteer Fire Department. Roger also took great pride in being a Mason – first with Lewis Lodge #104 in Howard and then with Avoca Masonic Lodge #673.
Roger was happiest at home on the farm just being with his family. He enjoyed all things outdoors and was an avid hunter and fisherman. He was quite an athlete as a young man, and in his older years he experienced great enjoyment watching his kids and grandkids play sports. He especially loved the baseball games.
Roger was deeply loved and revered as the family patriarch. He will surely leave a huge empty spot now that he is gone, but he is also leaving a wonderful legacy for all of us.
The Avoca Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Roger Burdin.
Calling hours will be on Sunday, July 19, 2015 at the Avoca Funeral Home from 1p.m. – 3p.m. (Masonic Memorial Service to be held at 3p.m.)and from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. The funeral service, with military honors, will be on Monday, July 20, 2015 at 4 p.m. at the Howard Union Church with the Rev. Don Lester officiating. Roger will be laid to rest at the family farmstead.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Masonic Home c/o Avoca Masonic Lodge.

Subscribe to receive updates