R. Edward Burton

A host of his long time friends in Willits and Mendocino County will miss the unique personality of Ed Burton who passed away on Thursday, October 21, 2010 following a massive stroke. He was born in Santa Cruz, the fourth child of Robert and Lucy Burton, and grew up there, attending the University of California, Berkeley where he earned both bachelor's and master's of science degrees with a specialty in forestry. He served as a radio operator on Guam in the Army Air Corps in World War II, and in 1946 he met and married his beloved wife Hattie Ogden. In 1950 the couple moved to Willits where Ed took a job as a forester for Willits Redwood Products. During that time he also taught math and forestry at Willits High School for a year. The couple enjoyed a loving marriage that lasted 60 years until Hattie's death in 2006. Ed had a lifelong interest in turning waste materials into useful products, particularly ones that would address an environmental problem. He developed the Microphor wastewater treatment system that used redwood bark as the media to clean sewage. With the help of local businessmen and investors, including Bob Harrah, this became a successful product and company and was widely used on railroads and ships throughout the world. His 21 patents included ones for debarking logs, improving air quality, as well as many for wastewater treatment. Most recently he sponsored an inventor's workshop to help other inventors convert their ideas into products. Ed was a born teacher. He mentored many Willits High School young men and women who went on to pursue careers in the sciences. His weekly column in The Willits News called "There's a Better Way-Find It!" covered science and environmental issues as well as stories about local people and was a staple and widely read in the newspaper for 30 years. Ed was an active member of the Willits Community. He served on the School Board in the 1950's, was a member of the Willits Rotary Club for over 50 years and a member of the Masonic Lodge for at least as many years. He also belonged to the Memorial Baptist Church. One of the best-loved community services was his many years as Associate Guardian of Jobs Daughters and the many friends in Willits that he and Hattie enjoyed over the years. Ed also was a dedicated father and husband and will be very much missed by his children and grandchildren. He is survived by his children, Marjorie (Mike) Haselswerdt, Beverly (Jay) James and Bruce Burton (Linda Buletti); his grandchildren, Jacob, Ella, and Annie Haselswerdt, Daisy and Zachary James, and Rob Ernie Burton. They are particularly grateful for his unwavering support and the wonderful memories of Sunday family outings. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews as well as treasured friends, especially his dear friend and dancing partner, Edith Ceccarelli Funeral services will be held at the Willits Harrah Senior Center, 1501 Baechtel Road, on Saturday, October 30, at 11:00 a.m.