C. Matt Burman

Our sincere condolences to Elenita Jan, Jacque and Dutch. May the knowledge that Mateo was loved by so many be of great comfort to you.
It was so very nice to see him at the family reunion last August. His book on the family history will be cherished forever. Mateo was never without a smile and that is how we like to remember him. May he finally rest in peace

Our sympathy goes out to Mateo's children and Elenita. We just met last June in Alberta when we drove out for a Sunday visit to the llama farm where Elenita's daughter lived with her husband.

Martin had met his uncle and his family many years ago on a trip to California out of high school - maybe 1970. Martin enjoyed talking with Uncle Mateo last June and asking questions about Martin's father - the eldest in the Buurman family.

Take care and comfort in knowing...

There were eight of us and now there are only two left. It was much better with three. We will also miss our brother. In elementary achool in Holland, he was my protector (I'm 4 years younger). Later in my youth he was an inspiration to me. We lived together several years in Canada, and we spent many evenings playing card games. These were great times. Yes, he was a great guy. Who would take a sailboat to Hawaii all by himself- only Mateo. He somehow reminded me of our father, who was not...

It is always sad to loose someone.
It is more sad when you loose your father.
It is even sad when you loose an uncle.
Especially when you first met him not so long ago. Time unfortunally was too short to meet again.
Matt, the only time I met you was a wonderfull time. I will never forget it.
I know you now as a warmhearted person; a real Buurman, as far as I know.
Bon Voyage patriarch; we will meet again, I'm sure.
I wish Elenita and Matts...

It really saddens me to think that I will never be able to meet with Mateo again. Elinita, I really enjoyed visiting you two in Yelapa

Dearest Matteo, Elenita and you made me so welcome in your homes in Yelapa, First in the big house with the colourful history, then in your charming cottage high on the hill in the jungle, waking up early and watching you so lovingly tend your garden is a picture I will alway hold dear in my heart, I will toast my fellow adventurer on his biggest adventure yet. love to all your children and to dear Elenita, Roswynne

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD!!!

Mateo, you will be missed. Your lust for life was unmatchable and, as a man 20 years my senior, I was constantly envious of your energy and focus. Thanks to you and Elenita for your indispensable help with the building of our home in Yelapa. The reason it is beautiful is that you were there and YOU CARED.

Mateo,
I have missed you for coffee lately but know that you are doing all right. Love and condolences to all your family and friends, and I hope we can meet again...