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Ronald E. Burton

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Northwestern University

Ronald Burton Obituary

Age 67, a longtime resident of Framingham, died an Saturday, September 13, 2003 after a four year battle with bone cancer (multiple myeloma). Husband of 44 years to Jo Ann (Jourdain) Burton of Framingham. Born in Springfield, Ohio on July 25, 1936, he was the son of the late Robert L. and Mary E. (Wilson) Burton. Besides his wife Jo Ann, he is survived by his children; Stephen Burton, Elizabeth Burton-Scott, Ron Burton Jr., Philip Burton and Paul Burton. He is also survived by his five grandchildren; Kendall, Kayla, Austin, and Veronica Burton and Roman Scott. Mr. Burton was a Shriner, a Mason, an Eagle Scout and a high school All-American, collegiate All-American and Hall of Famer at Northwestern University and a number one draft choice of the AFL Boston Patriots. He was also an Executive at John Hancock for over 35 years. Mr Burton was known not only for his athletics, but for his extensive community outreach. As a lifelong desire to give back to the community, he established the Ron Burton Training Village in 1985, whose mission is to help underprivileged children ages 11- 17. Not only does the camp train kids physically and educationally but it also teaches children the values of love, peace, patience and humility. The program is designed to build self esteem, self reliance, love for God, love for others and racial harmony. Against his lawyer's and banker's advice, he invested ail of his assets in building "a place where everyone loves one another" To date over 2000 kids have attended this camp. During the Korean War, Mr. Burton served in the US Army. Relatives and friends are invited to attend his funeral service on Thursday at 11 AM at the Tremont Temple Baptist Church, 88 Tremont St., Boston, MA. Commital Services will follow in Edgell Grove Cemetery, 53 Grove St. at Framingham Centre. Visiting hours will be Wednesday from 2-5 and 7-9 PM in the Plymouth Church, United Church of Christ, 87 Edgell Road, Framingham Center. Arrangements are under the care of the Norton Funeral Home, 53 Beech St., (corner of Union Ave.) FRAMINGHAM. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy in Mr. Burton's memory may be made to the Ron Burton Training Village, P.O. Box 2, Hubbardston, MA 01452.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Boston Globe on Sep. 16, 2003.

Memories and Condolences
for Ronald Burton

54 Entries

Auntie V, Auntie Debbie & the gentlemen of Resurrection Rox.

October 16, 2003

Thinking of you !

Each day the Christian message God 1st, Others 2nd, Me 3rd ring out at Resurrection Rox. afterschool drop-in center. Whenever any of us have on our sweatsuits we talk to others spreading the messages of the Ron Burton Training Village.

Thanks be To God for sending this Messenger.

Hope to talk to you soon Ron

Love Van Nessa,

Debby & The Boys

Adrienne McGrath

October 14, 2003

All of us are thinking of you and your family and offer you our prayers, love and support during this sad time. Our family will continue to pass along to others the everlasting messages of kindness, love and peace we all learned from Ron. Thank you to your entire family for sharing Ron with us.

With Much Love,

Jack, Adrienne, Conor and Peter McGrath

Marsha McCarthy

September 22, 2003

To all of the Burtons,

Thank you for sharing Mr. B with us. You all have been so kind to us for so many years. We love you all.

Ron was more than a friend to so many and gave of himself. We will never meet another man as great as he was, until we are in heaven with him. I still can always picture his smile and his kind words will give me strength forever. I love you all and may God bless you through these days. First God sent his Son to save us then he sent Ron to help us learn and love us more. .

Love, Marsha McCarthy

Dickie Robinson

September 19, 2003

To the Ron Burton Family

We will continue to lift the Burton Family up in our prayers. Ron was a special gift to life, but God gave him to us for 67yrs and we praise God for such a wonderful gift. We will always remember the Burton family for allowing my wife and I the priviledge of sharing a few wonderful days with Ron in his latter days. You have our love and may God continue to Bless the Burton Family.

Gina Regan_ Goodwin

September 19, 2003

I too was lucky enough to have The Burtons in my life. Beth is one of my best friends now and was in High School. Mr. Burton was wonderful. He and Mrs. Burton opened their home to all their childrens friends, and introduced us all to Bible Studies and a mean game of volleyball ! He also gave many of us scholarships to F.C.A. I will never forget the loving safe place he made for us all. He is in Heaven now, He has left a legacy at his camp, but mostly with his 5 unbelievable, loving, godly, humble and wonderful children. Steve, Ginni Beth Tom Ron Eliana Philip Lavita Paul and Joanne, You will be my prayers forever !!!

Lisa Graham (Francesconi)

September 19, 2003

To the Burton Family,

I met Steve when I was in high school and quickly made friends with him. (I don't know many people who Steve didn't befriend). His family welcomed everyone into their home. Mr. and Mrs. Burton really got to know all of their kids' friends. It always amazed me at how many people they know!

Ron Burton lives on in his children and grandchildren and God is blessed with his presence in Heaven.

Auntie V#

September 18, 2003

Ron

Thankyou for today. The tribute to your father was splended. Whatever Auntie Debby, the children or I can to please do not hesitate to call on us! Always in my heart and thoughts will be the messages heard today Love you Van Nessa

Myles Bacon

September 18, 2003

As a product of Springfield, Ohio, I never knew our town could produce much of anything but buses, semi-trucks, and tourists for other area cities. But in 1990, I had the pleasure of meeting Ron Burton, a man who no words will ever fully be able to describe. I have never seen one person go so far out of their way to make sure that everyone about them was satisfied and happy. Mr. Burton gave me clothes, took me in for Thanksgivings when I couldn't make it home from boarding school, and was one person I knew I could count on for anything i'd ever be in need of in this world. I was a camper at the Ron Burton Training Village for 6 consecutive summers, and I feel that that spiritual training, leadership building, and soul education are all things that I would not have received anywhere else in this world. No book could encapsulate the beauty of any morsel of good that Mr. Burton found in every one of his campers. Think about it, how many people can you truly say that you could love when they make you get up at 4.30 every summer morning and run 8 miles? Mr. Burton has touched all of us so dearly, and I would be remiss in saying that I would not be where I am now without him. He has touched more people than he could ever meet because his message lives through the hundreds of campers he spent his time, money, patience, and love with every summer. You're an awesome man, Mr. Burton. You've an incredibly loving family, and we're all blessed to have gotten to be a part of you.

Paul Paresky

September 18, 2003

Dear Burton Family,

A great man has passed and the great mark he left on us all will be everlasting. Our families prayers are with you during this difficult time. We will miss him.

Robert Johnson

September 17, 2003

The Burton Family,

I shall miss you Ron.

My last account of you was at the 1986 High school reunion,where you showed the area view your camp site. We all knew then, that great

things were about take place in your life`s work in praise of our God. Bless the Burton Family

Shaun Galvin

September 17, 2003

To the family of Ron Burton,

I just wanted to offer to you my condolences and sympathies to you on the passing of Ron. I'm a very loyal fan of the Bruins, Celtics, Red Sox, and Patriots. My thoughts and prayers are especially with Phil and Steve who are my favorite sports TV personalities. I will always remember the volunteer work that Ron has Done especially for setting up the Ron Burton Training facility for youngsters who play the game of football. He will be deeply be missed and God Bless You All.

Terry Leahy

September 17, 2003

My sincere sympathy to the Burton family. As a child, I watched Ron play football for Northwestern. It seems like yesterday when his name was ringing throughout Dyche Stadium while he was carrying the ball. Since then, I did not hear of Ron again until now. What a successful, wonderful individual. All the Wildcat fans can be proud of Ron Burton. I know what he went through --- my sister has multiple myeloma. Thanks for everything, Ron.

Carl E.(Mickey) Hutchins

September 17, 2003

To the Family of Ron Burton:

Words come hard at a time such as this, but I would like to think all of you (The Burton Family) for the time that you shared Ron with us this summer. Psalms 116:15 reads Precious in the sight of thel Lord is the death of his saints, and Ron Burton was truely one of God's saints.May the love of Jesus bless, keep and comfort all of you (The Burton Family).Love Carl E. Hutchins&Family

Roger Neal

September 16, 2003

I grew up in Springfield, OH in the neighborhood with Ron. Like everyone else from our hometown I heard about Ron's material success. This success was very minute when compared to his achievements as a person.The love that he showed for the children of his camp, and the love that I saw in the eyes and heard in the voices of his wife and children these last three years when I was priviledged to visit my dear friend exhibited what true success is all about. I love you MR RONALD BURTON. May our Lord always bless and comfort your family.

Van Nessa Jemmott

September 16, 2003

Thank you God for sending Mr. R. Burton and his family to the children at Resurrection Rox and the Urban League. The Love And lesson shared will live on in our heart and soul as we continue to lift up the the words "God first, Others second, Me last. God Bless you all.

Auntie V. and the Boys!!!!

Jesse

September 16, 2003

Dear Burton Family i am deeply saddened for your familys lost of Mr Burton.He is in a good place now and he dosent have to go through the pain.

Peggy Horne

September 16, 2003

To the Burton Family,

My deepest sympathy at this time of your great loss. I had the pleasure of meeting Ron Sr. and he was a wonderful person, father and man. God Bless you all at this time of loss.

Isham Peugh

September 16, 2003

I first met Ron Burton when he spoke at an annual Boy Scout Order of the Arrow event. Subsequent to that, he was honored by having a Scottish Rite Class named after him. I was in that class so have a jewel with a football. We crossed paths several times since that first OA speech. He was quite special.

Norina Bennett

September 16, 2003

Our condolences to the Burtons for the passing of your and our beloved Ron. (Big Guy). Two months ago I had an opportunity to see him and minister to him at his hospital bed. I sang numerous gospel songs to him. He said he felt like he was in heaven and an angel signing to him and that I took him back to his Grandmother's time. Well, Ron got a taste of what angels will sound like because he is in a better place. He will forever be in our hearts.

From the Bennett family: Norina, Christopher, Daniel (Spud) as he was named at RBTV and Marie Bennett from Foxboro

Marti Hoar

September 16, 2003

I cannot tell you how sorry I am to hear of Ron's death. He was such a kind person, and I first met him at an NFL alumni golf tournament. His work with children will never be forgotten. I admire him so much, he is an incredible role model for the youth of today.

Pam Holt-Jones

September 16, 2003

My family is deeply sadden by the loss of Ron. He honestly lived by his beliefs. A man who knew the meaning of ME THIRD!. He has had a tremendously positive influence on our three boys. The boys have definately learned the best habits of life from the Burton's. I wish God gave Ron more time on earth to touch and influence more lives.

Peter Roby

September 16, 2003

Ron has been an inspiration to many here in Boston both professionally and personally. His legacy of kindness, love and hope will remain for many years to come. He will be missed.

Christopher Garofoli

September 16, 2003

My deepest sympathies go out to the entire Burton family, my thoughts and prayers are with you.

I first met Mr. Burton at the age of 11 when I was a camper. I learned many things over my four year there from strength training and dancing to ping pong and Paraseghians. I met some of the most wonderful people there at camp and I wanted to thank you. The one lesson I will never forget from Mr. Burton was his saying "people like nice people" and I still live by it today.

I will never forget you Mr. Burton or your generous family who shared you with us every summer and especially your friend Preston.

Carol Malcolm

September 16, 2003

I met Ron in 1986 and I have always felt that I was blessed by knowing this man of peace and goodwill. Peace my friend, I shall always miss you.

Pat Zastowsky

September 16, 2003

Words cannot express our saddness at Ron's illness and passing. His legacy will live on for eternity through his good deeds and compassion. We were fortunate to see him in Florida last year and wish him well. Our love and blessings to JoAnn and the family. Pat Zastowsky and Don Kochenour

Richard Coyle

September 16, 2003

As a Northwestern alumnus I remember Ron for his great loyality to the university and as one who represented the best for others to follow.

My sincere condolances to his family

Donna Stetson-Testa

September 15, 2003

I was a High School classmate of Beth and Steve and would like to extend my thoughts and prayers to them at this difficult time.I have occasionally felt some guilt that in order for my family to have my mother for an extra 2 years, she had to suffer. But I want to say to you what everyone has reminded me...Your Dad was an extraordinary man full of love and he wouldn't have given up a moment of time if it meant seeing less of you. Love, D

Sonny Harshaw

September 15, 2003

Ron was a caring and loving person. He taught me a lot while growing up on Dibert Ave. He will be greatly missed. The Burton family is in my thoughts and prayers.

Ron, Thanks for the memories.

Carla Miller

September 15, 2003

Mr. Burton was a very special person to me. His warm spirit and kind heart cannot be replaced. I am truly blessed to have known such a great man. I know that he is in a better place now. I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to Mrs. Burton, Steve, Beth, Ronnie, Phil, and Paul. I love you all and I am here for you always.

Fran LaBrecque

September 15, 2003

Our deepest sympathy goes out to the Burton Family.

Ron will be greatly missed.

There will always be a special place in our hearts and thoughts for Ron.

We are all better off having known such a great man

Aidan Byrne

September 15, 2003

I would like to thank the entire Burton family for all they gave me while I was growing up. Some of the greatest memories of my childhood and teenage years are from the summers I spent at Mr. Burton's camp. Mr. Burton always said that it would all be worhtwhile for him to keep his camp running if he could only make a difference in one person's life. That goal has been reached over and over hundreds of times. Thank you to the entire family, and know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Aidan

Earnest & Carolyn Dever

September 15, 2003

I first met Ron Burton when my son attended his son's football camp about 4 years ago. He touch my husband's and my heart instantly. I never met anyone who had such an inner glow. When he spoke no one could help but to stop and listen to his very wise words. I enjoyed listening to him tell story about his childhood. He was a true angel right here on earth. Each year that we would drop my son off Ron and my husband would speak for long periods of time about being a Mason, family and God. My prayers are with his family.

Wendy Cashen

September 15, 2003

To the Burton Family,

My prayers and sympathy go out to you during this very difficult time. I had the pleasure of briefly meeting Ron and Jo Ann while working at Dana Farber and am so saddened to hear of his passing.

God Bless. He is now resting peacefully.

Ray & Bette Forest

September 15, 2003

We will miss you dearly, we loved being able to work with you at the camp and getting to know your family.

God bless your family and our Lord welcomes you home with open arms.

Much love.Ray and Bette Forest/ with the First Baptist Church of Westminster

Matthew L. Carpenter

September 15, 2003

I met and spoke with Mr. Burton on several occasions. Each of those times was memorable because I felt the warmth of God's love through his words and deeds. I don't think I have met many who dressed with and carried himself with so much class. Yet he touched anyone who would listen with kindness and love. Mr. Burton exemplified all that is good in men and passed that down to his children. My thoughts and prayers are with all the Burtons today.

Marty McDonald

September 15, 2003

To the Burton Family,

Ron Burton will continue to exemplify the true values in life, to wit: goodness, honesty, sincerity, appreciation, family, integrity, dedication and love for all. Our thoughts, prayers and love go out to the entire Burton Family.

Much Love,

Marty and Debbie McDonald and Family

Dennis O'Donnell

September 15, 2003

I have had the great honor of knowing Ron Burton since moving to Hubbardston in 1985. As a member of the Board of Selectmen I have watched his Training Facility evolve over the years. But the one constant was the message that Ron sent to all the kids who passed through the camp: Respect for self and respect for others. This was a kind, generous and good man who will be missed. He is at rest and happy to be with the Lord.

Shirley Bacon

September 15, 2003

Mr. Burton and my brother Charles Bacon were best friends in High School in Springfield, Ohio, Charles went to be with the Lord. My son, Chase Jordan attended the camp and had a time of his life. He is a student at New School University in NY.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Burton family and good friends like Preston Hampton. We know how close Ron was to God and we will all see him again.

Much love,

Shirley Bacon & son Chase Jordan

L Street Running Club

September 15, 2003

It was so sad to hear about Ron Burton's passing. He battled bone cancer for may years but smiled and put his heart and soul into helping children and adults realize their dreams. His camp is a testimony to this wonderful man. Many of us at L Street would never have crossed the finish line of the Boston Marathon if it wasn't for the opportunity provided to us by The Ron Burton Foundation. Ron Burton has completed his own marathon but there is no finish line for him...he will live on because of all the lives he has touched in so many special ways. God Bless Ron Burton.

George Jones

September 15, 2003

Mr. Burton:

Your gift was not only a warm smile and handshake... but the spirit of love. Your presence alone made others feel welcomed and accepted. You encouraged so many of us to reach and teach and always share the gift of love with others. I have been blessed by you and your family and I will miss you very much.

Cindy Massiah

September 15, 2003

Mr. Burton was a very giving and loving man. His kindness preceeded everything he did. He will be missed.

The Nativity Preparatory School Parents Thank you Ron.

China Brown

September 15, 2003

Ron was a very caring man who helped lots of people.

He was very kind to my family and I when he hosted a family reunion at his home a few years ago.

Madell Warfield

September 15, 2003

The Burton Family

Ron and I go back 60 years, as we were childhood friends, growing up a few doors apart. Ron was a special person, with the biggest heart, of anybody I know. I'm glad He was my friend. God bless the Burton Family. Madell (Oats ) Warfield

Cathy Johnson

September 15, 2003

First and foremost, my prayers and thoughts for the Burton Family. Ron cared about everyone especially the children. He was such an inspirational person. I too work for JH and would speak with him in passing. He always had a smile on his face. He had a great zeal for helping all children to achieve their goals in life. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him. Goodbye Ronald E. Burton. Your legacy will live on.

David Chamberlain

September 15, 2003

To the Burton Family:

My thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time. Ron Burton was one in a million. I am truly priveleged to have known this man who inspired so many people over the years. Ron is one of the role models early in my life that helped develop my strong faith in God, church, family and community. He also had a Hall of Fame handshake, just one of many fond memories I will keep. He will be sorely missed; We were all blessed to know such a man.

God bless your family.

Dave Chamberlain and Family

Arthur Thomas

September 15, 2003

Rest Well Ron...You deserve it.

Our deepest and most sincere sympathy to the family at this moment.

Remember the strength of your husband and father and his undying faith to get you through this mournful time.

Angelena Kyles

September 15, 2003

Mr. Burton will be missed . Your family is in my prayers.

Angelena ( DFCI registration)

Karen Monteforte

September 15, 2003

My son and I are deeply saddened by Ron's death. Ron made a tremendous impact on both of our lives. The entire Burton family are incredibly special people. God has just been given a very special angel to be with him.

Eileen Dugre

September 15, 2003

Dear Burton Family:

The Dugre Family is mourning the loss of the greatest man we know. He will be greatly missed. He was a mentor to my two boys David and Paul and they feel very priveliged to have known and loved him. Our prayers are with all of you and everyone else who knew him because you cannot have known Ron without loving him.

Sincerely,

Jerry,Eileen, David, Paul, Ashley and Luke Dugre

Philip Brady

September 15, 2003

Ron was a wonderful man. I thought so much of him that I invited him to preside over the marriage of my daughter in 1992. I hope to be able to attend any service that you have planned. My most sincere condolences.

Philip H. Brady

Major White

September 15, 2003

Thanks for your for sharing your life with us.

Major, Mark and Holli

Deanna Jantzen

September 15, 2003

Sleep well our dear, dear friend. God is smiling to have you home.

Much love, Deanna Jantzen and Vin Lembo

Harry Prestier

September 15, 2003

My Thoughts and Prayers go with the family and to all he had contact with. As a co-worker and friend the loss of this great man will be felt forever. His devotion and dedication to Family, Friends, and whoever he had contact with, especially the youth of today, has inspired all of us and will forever. God Bless you Ron.

"Fair Winds and Following Seas"

Harry Prestier (USNavy,Retired)

Co-Worker.

Nicholas Freitas

September 15, 2003

My heart is broken and I share your sorrow. I loved Mr. Burton as did everyone who knew him

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