John R. BURLEIGH

BURLEIGH, John R. John R. Burleigh (Jack) of Vernon, CT passed away peacefully at home on Thursday (May 27, 2010) following a brief illness. Jack was born in Rockville Center, NY on July 17, 1929 to the late Arthur S. and Lillian (Mast) Burleigh. He attended Lynbrook High School, where he graduated with honors in 1946. In 1950 he graduated from the University of New Hampshire with a degree in chemical engineering. He was a reserve in the Army National Guard, completing his service in 1956. Jack worked for several engineering and consulting firms in New York City, and later in Southport and Shelton, CT before retiring in 1984. Jack lived in Norwalk, CT for almost 40 years, where he was very active in the community and in the First Congregational Church on the Green. Five years ago he moved to Vernon. He had many interests and hobbies, and actively pursued them up until his recent illness. He was a talented woodworker, and used these skills to craft furniture and toys for his children and grandchildren. In addition he enjoyed reading, history, genealogy and travel. Jack also tried his hand at local theater, and painted watercolors; many of which he gave away to family and friends. His favorite pastime, however, was spending time at "camp" on Horn Pond in Maine, where he shared his love for boating and lakeside relaxation with family and friends every summer. Jack is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Muriel (Sunbury) Burleigh, his sister Elinor Lott and her husband Harry of Moraga, CA, his daughter Leslie Wolfenden and her husband David of Manchester; two sons and their spouses, Art and Debbie Stengel of Stratford, and Mark and Sue Stengel of Brookfield, N.H.; his grandchildren, Caroline, Jeffrey, and Christine Wolfenden; Kylie and Kevin Stengel; and Keri Harrington and her husband Matthew. Three great-grandchildren, Aaron, Parker and Danika, also survive him. Jack was predeceased by his first wife Zita, and his grandson Jarid. A memorial service to celebrate Jack's life will be held at 11 a.m. on June 5, 2010 at South United Methodist Church at 1226 Main St. in Manchester, CT. A luncheon reception at the church will immediately follow the service, at which time the family will receive relatives and friends. In lieu of flowers, gifts in Jack's memory may be sent to the American Cancer Society P.O. Box 22718 Oklahoma City, OK 73123-1718 www.Cancer.org. The Watkins Funeral Home in Manchester is assisting with arrangements. To sign the online guest book please visit www.holmes-watkinsfuneralhomes.com.