Davis Harold Burbank

Davis Harold Burbank

Fernandina Beach, FL - Davis Harold Burbank passed away at his home in Fernandina Beach, FL on August 2nd. He was 77 years old and just five days before his 78th birthday.

Born August 7, 1947 to Frances M. Burbank and Ray Clyde Burbank Jr., he grew up in Winchendon, MA. Davis was an Eagle Scout and an accomplished swimmer throughout his high school years. He graduated Murdock High School in 1965, then was recruited to Syracuse University. He was a member of the swim team and was in the Delta Upsilon Fraternity graduating in 1969. Later on in his adult career he got his masters in counseling at Keene State College and completed doctoral work at SNHU and UNH.

Davis's early career included Pan Am Airlines, Plainfield Elementary School, and Husson College. Davis was Dean of the Hospitality and Culinary School at New Hampshire College (SNHU). Davis ended his career as the Associate Dean for over a decade at Thompson School at UNH where he taught both Sociology and Psychology. Once retired, Davis continued lending a hand at the Thompson Kitchens showing his love of cooking. Davis worked at Kearsarge High School, where he met his wife Yayoi. Davis and Yayoi spent a year in China teaching English to elementary school children. There they experienced a different culture and way of life. During their time in China they also traveled throughout Asia Pacific, adding on to their trip of a lifetime.

Davis was a resident of Stratham, NH and Bow, NH and it was always his dream to retire in Florida. He settled in Amelia Island, where he enjoyed teaching Tai Chi, swimming, fishing and spending time with his wife Yayoi and their cat, Kitty.

Davis will be remembered for his love of food,travel,and having a political discussion. He was a believer in secondary education and was always willing to give his advice on how to achieve one's goals in their education endeavors. He was also known for sage guidance, support and hand written letters for any family members facing challenging situations. He fondly remembered and loved fishing trips with his sons to Parmachenee Lake, and was known for always being blessed with salmon at black cat every year on his birthday.

He is survived by his wife, Yayoi Shimura Burbank, his son Bill Burbank and wife Maura, of Nottingham NH, his daughter Beth Towle and husband Ryan of Henniker NH, and his son Nathan Burbank and wife Perry of New York, N.Y. His seven grandchildren, Helaina, Ava, Hillary, Claire, Jonathan, Carolyn, Archie, and one great grandchild, Bo. He is preceded in death by his mother Frances, father Ray, his sister Barbara and his beloved son Jonathan who unexpectedly died in 2005.

A graveside service will be held at the Riverside Cemetery, Glenallen Street, Winchendon,MA, on August 22nd at 10am, where will be laid to rest alongside his parents Ray and Frances Burbank, and his sister Barbara. All are welcome and a reception will be held afterwards.

In lieu of Flowers, please donate to the Burbank Memorial Scholarship fund www.davisburbank.com This scholarship will go towards a NH student who shows promise in Tai Chi, martial arts, and yoga and may not take a traditional path. www.davisburbank.com