Richard D Burr

Known as “Dick” to his New York family and friends, and “Rich” to friends and coworkers in San Diego, Richard grew up in New Berlin NY, a hamlet south of Utica. In high school he excelled in basketball and baseball and worked for local farmers.

A bit of a rogue, his father convinced him of the merits of joining the U.S. Navy where he served for 22 years, attaining the rank of Chief Petty Officer (E-7). Although he served a 4 year recruitment duty in Iowa, most of his service was as a cook on destroyers, including the Vietnam war, so he was a very popular fellow. When he retired he stayed in SD, using the GI bill to get his AA degree from Mesa College.

His second career, also spanning 22 years, was with the USPS where he met his wife Karen. They and daughter Megan enjoyed traveling to FLA & NY to visit his sisters, father, and daughter Jackie (first marriage) and throughout Cali and the western US.

After his second retirement he went to work at Enterprise Rent-A-Car as a shuttle driver. How he loved that job! Quite the car buff, he was able to drive all the new models. He retired after 15 years because of health issues. He loved all sports and supported the local teams both college and pro. His passion for cars included owning a ‘65 Mustang, ‘69 GTO convertible, and his great love, a 2010 Corvette.

Richard is survived by his wife Karen and daughter Megan of SD, daughter Jaqueline Murphy (Tim) and granddaughter Kenzie of Jefferson NY, sisters Edith Smith (Bob), and Celia Parent (Bob) both of Oxford NY, and 8 nieces/nephews and their families who are scattered across the nation.

Graveside services with full military honors will be held at Miramar National Cemetery on Wednesday September 5th at 11:00 AM. If you would like, please contribute in his name to the Wounded Warriors Project or a veteran’s support group of your choice.

Richard was an honest, straightforward, hardworking, and dedicated family man and citizen. He will be missed by all who knew him. You may contact markleymitchell.com for more information.