Ambrose Hilliar Burrows

Mystic - Ambrose Hilliar Burrows died peacefully in his sleep March 27, 2013.

Born April 18, 1922, to Albert C. Burrows and Sarah (Cochrane) Burrows, he was the youngest of four children. Growing up in Mystic, he attended Mystic Academy and graduated Robert E. Fitch Senior High School, class of 1940.

From his father, Ambrose inherited a love for the water and an appreciation for both sailing and rowing. He remained an avid rower well into his 80s. His regular route was from Latimer Point around Fisher's Island and back. On one occasion, and with the objection of his wife, he even rowed his Cape Dory to Block Island.

Ambrose was particularly proud of his service in the U.S. Coast Guard, and enjoyed sharing the experience of sailing the German built training ship, formerly known as Horst Wessel, across the Atlantic from post-war Bremerhaven to New London, where she took up residency at the Coast Guard Academy as the Barque Eagle. He was a member of the renowned "prize crew" of The Eagle.

In 1942 Ambrose married Nancy E. Schofield. They were happily married for 64 years, raising two children, Janet and Albert. Sadly, he survived all three.

He is survived by a grandson, Ambrose Godwin, as well as five nephews and a niece.

In his 40 years with the Dial Corp., Ambrose and his family had the opportunity to live in Maine, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island, but he and Nancy returned to Mystic in the 1970s.

Ambrose enjoyed the art of conversation. His many colorful stories will be missed by his family and friends alike.

Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday at the Dinoto Funeral Home, 17 Pearl Street, historic downtown Mystic. A service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday at the funeral home with burial and presentation of military honors following at Elm Grove Cemetery.

Donations may be made to the U.S. Coast Guard Museum, (860) 444-8511.

For directions or to share a note of remembrance/condolence, please visit www.dinotofuneral.com.