Burl Grimes

On Tuesday the world lost a wonderful man, Burl Grimes, age 87, who was adored by his family and friends. Burl was born June 27, 1931 in Latonia, KY; and his family moved to Mobile, AL in 1939. He joined the US Navy after graduating from Baker High School in 1950. Burl served on the USS Haven from 1950-1954, during the Korean conflict. After leaving the Navy, Burl returned to Mobile, AL and worked in the Civil Engineering department at Brookley AFB. In 1965 he transferred to Tyndall AFB in Panama City, FL and made it his home. Burl continued to work at Tyndall AFB for 35 years until he retired as a Structural Superintendent in 1986.

Burl was preceded in death by his parents, Julia (Traywick) and Fred Grimes; an elder sister, Freddie Barrow; and a younger brother, Jeff Grimes. He leaves behind his loving wife, Beryl (Kuhlman) of 63 years; his elder sister, Kate Barber; his son, Brad Grimes; his daughter, Tracy Mueller (Gary); his daughter, Jane Butler; his beloved grandchildren, Matthew Harding (Meaghan), Reid Butler (Miho), and Luke Mueller, as well as his great-grandson, Keegan Harding. Burl also leaves behind numerous loving nephews and nieces.

Burl was what many would describe as a “character.” He had an extraordinary sense of humor and a knack for quoting limericks and funny one-liners that always brought a smile or laughter. Burl loved life and loved people, and he never met a stranger. He married the love of his life, Beryl Kuhlman, on August 27, 1955. With names like BURL and BERYL, it was meant to be. In his spare time, he enjoyed fishing, boating, square dancing, wood working, planting an annual garden, golfing, watching FSU football, and throwing a good fish fry! He was a devoted long time member of Tyndall Parkway Presbyterian Church. As his health began to decline in 2015, he moved from Panama City, FL to Texas to live his final years with his children.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, March 2 at the Colonial Funeral Home in Universal City, TX. The family will receive friends from noon - 1 PM immediately followed by a memorial service.