William "Cougar" Burleigh

Your dad posted he woild see you in heaven. That happened 6 months and 1 day after your passing. He died of a broken heart from losing you. Hope you are together now.

So much to say...I didn't even hear about your tragic and unbelievably heartbreaking death until almost 3 years after it happened. Thank you for giving me the push of extra courage I needed to finally get into SCUBA. Thank you for the difficult lessons you most likely didn't consciously intend to teach me, but for better or worse, they've helped shape the person I am today. I'm sorry I waited so long to tell you these things...obviously I didn't anticipate that you'd be taken so early. But...

Loved you so much Cougar. Life will never be the same without you but I will see you again someday in heaven. I know that is where you are smiling now. Love Your Dad

I just saw this on the Portland news. That name jumped right out at me. I knew you when you were born, Billy. I'm sorry you are gone too soon.


(dian, contact me? please?)

Cougar, sweet Cougar. I still have trouble believing that yer gone. Am sorry to have missed yer memorial service, I just now found out about it...you were loved much in life & now in death, too. A true testament to leading a good life. <3 <3

You are missed by all COUGAR. RIP my brother. We will meet again on the other side

Your smile and hugs were the best. I met you at a crossroads in my life and I'm so grateful for all the support you gave me. I will never forget the weekend you came to Scott's Fireball Hall and we had a blast! The last thing we talked about was moving to Portland together and how we were excited to see each other again. I love you so much and I'm so sorry I didn't make it to the memorial. Much love, my love!

Cougar: Thanks for the scuba memories. The dive weekend on Catalina Island was like you...unforgettable. Rest in Peace my friend.

Cougar even tho i only knew you a short time, you made a very big impression on me and especially my heart!! I will never forget your beautiful smile and warm loving ways and your gentle touch. There is now a void in my heart, i will always love and miss you. May you rest in peace Ang God bless the Burleigh Family through this difficult time.