Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Minnette BURGES Obituary
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Minnette BURGES
Diana Rhoades
February 20, 2023
I was just back in Tucson and thought of Minnette and the neighborhood work we did together. She was inspiring and an amazing writer, offering excellent advice on a couple of op-Ed´s on important causes. She will forever live on in Tucson. - Diana Rhoades
Kathleen Williamson
February 19, 2022
Four years since. Countless times, including in the last week, when I've asked a fellow Tucsonan whether they knew Minnette Burges. She crosses my mind so often. And without fail, the response is a glowing assessment of and tale about their relationship with this gentle, smart and righteous woman. Minnette lives on in memories of her good words and deeds. Love to her family.
Laura Cardinal
October 1, 2018
I imagined she was still alive, fighting the good fight, until I read this obituary. That was how I thought of her, always giving it her all. All the love, all the care, all the attention. She was my first mentor as a young lawyer, and she remained a friend and role model. She never failed to call when she came to town, and we would catch up over cocktails. Ever elegant, warm, cheerful, insightful. Via con Dios, Amiga.
Marianne VanZyll
July 13, 2018
As a volunteer at the AZ Cancer Center I spent many hours having wonderful conversations with Minette. To my sorrow do I find out that she's no longer with us.
She fought a courageous battle and will be thoroughly missed.
My sincere condolences to Alan and family.
Marianne (your Fri. volunteer)
April 27, 2018
I was so honored to know Minnette and work with her on the revitalization of one of Tucson's historic neighborhoods - Jefferson Park. She was well loved and I will miss her energy and enthusiasm for nature, history, culture and the law. We lost an amazing leader. My heart goes out to her family.
Dahlia Rampolla
March 26, 2018
So sad to find out we have lost such a valuable member of our community. Godspeed, Ms. Burges
Nancy Cook
March 9, 2018
Planned Parenthood
Tobys (Minette) involvement in PPA evolved over a span of 13 years, from March 1980 to November, 1993. She was the first student representative on the Board, bicycling from the U of A to the 127 S. Fifth Ave. Clinic.. Her Board involvement started as Chair of the Patients Relation Committee. During her tenure she was on the Nominating; Personnel; Development; and International Committees. Further she served on the Arizona Womens Clinic from 1988-89. Toby was highly valued for her ability to define and record policy. Nancy Cook
Frank Rizzo
March 9, 2018
Minnette Toby Burges
In journalism class, you always wanted to sit next to Toby. (Sorry Minnette, youll always be Toby to me.) Was it her dry asides, her deadpan look, her common-sense opinions, or just the fact that she was the smartest person in the room (aside from Mr. Carson, that is)? For me it was all those things and so much more. At the Daily Wildcat, she was the best editor I ever had, because of her keen sense of what was important and true matched with a straight-forward style that also understood the need for a little nonsense. After all she was working with such brilliant minds and sui generis personalities as Tim Fuller, Scott Carter, Merl Reagle and Jose Galves. (She also has one of the best throaty laughs around.) As she pursued other career paths and passions, that same mix of brilliance, humor and grace that I first saw in that basement journalism classroom remained, inviting the lucky ones to pull up a chair. Frank Rizzo
Britta Bossu
March 9, 2018
TOBY, my friend
"Let us be grateful to people who make us happy, they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom." - Marcel Proust
Twenty six years ago, you stepped into my life, wanting to attend the 25th anniversary of your former employer, the Stars& Stripes. You had announced that you were coming with Linda through a short letter you sent to my husband Régis who was a colleague of yours way before the time I knew him.
We three girls spent almost a week, chatting, talking seriously, giggling, drinking and smoking, mostly at the kitchen table, and strolling through Frankfurt. It was the beginning of your regular visits with us, either in France or Germany. You brought Hadley and Gabo to meet us and then our families met in Lindas hometown Gloucester. The real change was the purchase of our I-mac and our e-mail address. From then on, we often exchanged daily short messages didnt we invent the chatting via email? This was how we learned to know each other more profoundly.
You knew how to comfort, not by hollow phrases but by your genuine empathy, your looking for solutions, your ideas, making things happen, you had plans. Our trips those last 3 years filled my life-bag with precious memories: your Good Morning smiles; your capability of savoring the moments with a glass of white wine, or cutting roses in our garden; your almost sensual pleasure walking through the aisle of a paper store, flea-market, antique store and touching the goodies, completely absorbed, then suddenly looking up and smilingly stating, Well I suppose I do not need it, but I like it.
Toby, you knew how to make the difference between important issues and unimportant ones in life. You never argued loudly. It was your calm dignity which persuaded. Twice you went with me to speak to my students about the USA. It was during difficult political times, but you made your point about American values, against generalizations, and for diversity.
Many days, we shared our thoughts by sending several links of newspaper articles, photos of your darlings, sunsets or flowers in our gardens. This exchanging these good vibes were giving you the strength to plan for the next meeting. You did not need to gloat about your achievements in life. You told your life story as something you faced and made decisions accordingly. Friendly and determined you were.
I dreamt we walked together along the shore. We made satisfying small talk and laughed. This morning I found sand in my shoe and a seashell in my pocket. Was I only dreaming?
Maya Angelou
Adieu Toby. Your friend Britta.
Ann Simmons/Meyers
March 9, 2018
Minnette Burges (two Ns, two Ts, one S)
Dinnerware was Minnettes trifecta, the perfect intersection of her lifetime passions: art, law, and community all in one package. While the artist cooperatives membership was rich with intentions, ideas and egos, there were serious voids in management, fundraising and legal expertise. Minnette masterfully provided a briefcase of desperately needed skills that actively benefited the arts and artists she dearly loved, while simultaneously giving back to the Tucson community that had nurtured her.
In meetings she had a presence, always in court clothes, taking her place in the blue jeaned folding chair circle, silent as the agenda commenced, waiting her turn. Minnette was a patient, perceptive, and persistent wrangler of business affairs and of studio rats alike. Her extraordinary calm was present no matter what the situation: car drove through the gallery (twice), naked performance artists ceiling fell in on artwork (insurance estimator was a dead cattle specialist), fire and building code violations, patrons stilettos pierced the floor (Laura Pendleton countless times), police accused galley of selling alcohol without license, patrons fancy jacket ruined by wet oil painting purchased at fundraiser, oh and the gallery bought a building on Congress Street.
Her enthusiasm was bold as were the concepts she championed and it was always exciting to be a collaborator. Minnettes enticement to action call would come after a full workday, before children, husbands, and dinner, We need a martini, meet me at the Arizona Inn, I have an idea. She was brilliant at planning special events with lots of moving parts, including those with internationally acclaimed visiting artists. Minnette was fiercely inclusive, often focusing on opportunities for student artists in Dinnerware programing. The martini meetings always ended the same, Minnette would sweet smile, cock her head, lock eyes, tap the calendar, So when can I expect that information from you?
Although she donated her expertise, actually Minnette paid, continually, to serve. When a project needed funding, when a repair needed to be made, when artwork didnt sell at a fundraiser, out came her checkbook for decisive resolution. Her commitment to arts and artists was based on family, ignited by the one she was born into and sustained by the one she created with Alan, Hadley and Gabo. Minnette was Dinnerwares Atlas.
Ann Simmons-Myers
Tucson, Arizona, February 2018
JPNA Executive Board Daniels, Trappman & Bolza
March 9, 2018
Jefferson Park Neighborhood Executive Board
This week Jefferson Park lost a great lady and a fierce advocate for our neighborhood. I am saddened by her passing, was deeply inspired by her, and am very thankful that Minnette Burges lived in our neighborhood.
We have Minnette's mother to thank for her presence in the neighborhood. That equally strong woman insisted she would not move from "her corner" in Jefferson Park. Eventually, Minnette returned and we have been the fortunate recipients of that family's strength and dedication.
Minnette left an impressive legacy for Jefferson Park. Perhaps it began the day she looked out her window to see a neighboring historic home under the bucket of the earth mover. She went into action assisting others to look carefully at the language of R-1 (residential) zoning rules. Now, due to her tireless efforts no more than four unrelated people are allowed to live on one site. Destroying historic homes to build mini-dorms was effectively blocked for all Tucson neighborhoods.
When the Grant Road project came tearing out the north side of Jefferson Park destroying historic homes and leaving small empty lots, she once again addressed the issue and engaged in discussions that have led to the proposal of a linear park.
Who was this woman? She went to Jefferson Park School, Roskrudge, and Tucson High School, so you might say she was a "true Tucsonan". She was the editor of the student newspaper at the UA and graduated with a Journalism degree. It seems she was a risk taker too. After graduation she took a job in Germany doing investigative reporting for the Stars and Stripes. Eight years later, her family needed her so she returned from Europe and completed a Law degree in 1983.
She once told a neighbor, "I was dedicated to social justice and civil rights...and that's what I wanted to do". She certainly did that. We needed an opinion--she had one. We needed a letter written--she composed it. We needed a white paper--she wrote it. We needed to start a non-profit--she would help. We needed to negotiate with developers--she would step up. Many Jefferson Park residents, and those in other neighborhoods remember her... "She was a gracious, articulate, knowledgeable , and an untiring advocate for the things she believed." Everything about her life leads us to believe that, for her, it was family, neighborhood, and community. And this neighborhood feels a great deal of gratitude to have had her among us. I am richer for knowing and working with her and I, and many others, will miss her wisdom and presence. (
J. Daniels)
Her expertise and even her comments at meetings and during informal conversations were always discerning, thoughtful and deliberate. Her unassuming leadership will be sorely missed. Her example inspires us going forward! (S. Trappman, R. Bolza)
Vicky Vance Stanton
March 9, 2018
High School Memories of Minnette by Vicki Vance Stanton
Tucson High brought Minnette and me together for the first time in a school setting, though we had known each other most of our lives through the friendship of our parents and oldest sisters. Our freshman year we were with a group of classmates at a varsity home football game when Minnette decided to call me Pollyanna. Maybe the team was losing and in my overly optimistic fervor she decided that the nickname fit me. I responded, If you are going to call me Pollyanna, I am going to call you Toby. My recollection was that the Toby character was Pollyannas sidekick. I dont recall being called Pollyanna too many more times, but to this day, many of Minnettes friends still call her Tobie.
Tobie was a true and loyal friend. And she was topnotch smart. Her demeanor was one of calm and quiet resolve. She never became flustered and in her thoughtful and direct manner she accomplished a lot. Tobie joined the editorial board of the high school newspaper, the Cactus Chronicle. This experience led to a major and a career in journalism, later as editor of the UA Daily Wildcat and then as a reporter for the Stars and Stripes newspaper in Germany.
We were in Girls League together all four years and had great fun planning school activities and assemblies. After high school and college, most of us went our separate ways, establishing careers and raising families. But those high school years form strong ties. Recently, we have had the joy of getting together from time to time for coffee or dinner. How grateful Nancy (partially seen in lower right photo) and I are that the three of us met for dinner at the Blue Willow on January 31st. Little did we know that it would be our last time together. Thank you, dear Tobie, for 66 years of friendship. Memories of you will always bring a smile to Pollyanna.
Margie Richcreek
March 9, 2018
Here are a few memories...
Minnette and all of her siblings learned to swim at the YWCA, Minnette and her mother Doris Burges, were on the Board of Directors. She supported the "women returning to work" program at the YWCA by by donating items of clothing appropriate for wearing to employment interviews.
Margie Richcreek, sister
Elaine Hill
March 9, 2018
Fort Lowell Historic Zone Advisory Board
Minnette was invited to join the Fort Lowell Historic Zone Advisory Board in 1999 after becoming friends with Roz Spicer and Peggy Sackheim, two of the founders of the Fort Lowell Historic District. She was a member with Special Qualifications, a category of membership for those with educational and professional experience in architectural history, local history, historic preservation law, planning or construction. She was one of those remarkable people who brought special qualifications in all those topics, but more than that. Minnette was a consistent, enduring force on the Board who was our friend and advisor. She brought thoughtful insight to sometimes thorny issues and always delivered her opinion with respect and calm; always a master at crafting the language to convey the most appropriate tone. She continued to participate on the Board and contribute while maintaining her own demanding schedule of work, family, grandchildren, Cimmeroncita, and illness. We will miss her professionalism, her passion, and most of all, her friendship.
Best regards,
Elaine Hill
(Co-chair Fort Lowell Historic Zone Advisory Board) - and friend
Mike /Liz Borquez
February 28, 2018
Dear Alan and family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
February 28, 2018
Godspeed Toby.
cynthia henry
February 27, 2018
my heart is broken.
Clark Andres
February 26, 2018
Sending my deepest condolences to the family. My mother told me stories of her friendship with Minnette. She'll be sincerely missed by all.
Sally DeHart
February 26, 2018
My deepest regrets and sympathy for the family and all she touched.
Train ride back from Boston. 2016
Linda Amero
February 26, 2018
Minette's passing has left a huge void in my heart. She was an integral part of my life for over 45 years - we loved to reminisce about our time together in Germany; our shared experiences, capers and joys (and after in Tucson when I would visit). She made me a better person and I will cherish her memory and forever miss her quiet presence. We had an ongoing joke that her middle name was "Discreet", not Doris. I'll miss you, my friend xoxo.
One's life has value so long as one attributes value to the life of others, by means of love, friendship, indignation, compassion." ~ Simone de Beauvoir
Kathleen Williamson
February 25, 2018
Minnette Burges was one of the finest people I've ever known. She was a gentle giant for friends, family, and community. I learned a lot from her example, ranging from where to place a kitchen garden, how to be effective for justice and neighborhood, or how to live with integrity. Time with her was always enjoyable; I and many people will miss Minnette deeply. Her friendship was a blessing.
Peggy Doogan
February 25, 2018
It was such a privilege to know you - The time seemed so short.
You made a difference in the world. Thank you, Minette
Peggy
Debbie Zeller
February 25, 2018
What sad news. My parents and the Burges' go way back to Grace Episcopal Church so I knew Minnette almost my entire life. My heart is with you during this difficult time.
Roberta Hammond
February 25, 2018
Minnette was a lifelong friend and we shared many experiences together. I will miss her wit, intelligence, support and creative spirit.
Showing 1 - 24 of 24 results
Make a Donation
in Minnette BURGES's name
Memorial Events
for Minnette BURGES
How to support Minnette's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Minnette BURGES's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
