Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
Burton Bickford Obituary
View All Photos
Add Photos to Memorial
13 Entries
Sue (Agee) Weber
May 12, 2008
My heartfelt sympathy to you all at this very difficult time. Ted, I remember you from grade school! You and your family are all in my thoughts; we lost my dad 4 years ago, and it's very sad to lose not only your friend but also a part of your childhood security. Take care - God Bless.
Kristi Anderson-Clayton
May 9, 2008
As a Member of the Old Neighborhood, I have Only The Fondest Memories of Your Dad...He was an Amazing, Talented Guy!...and Lord Knows, That Man Could Sing!!! My Best to Jill, Reji, and Ted
Jon Cameron
May 8, 2008
Reji, Jill & Ted - I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your father. As many have said, he was my dentist growing up and I have fond memories of my visits to his office - his gentle and professional approach and his happy demeanor.
As one of the "kids" in the Music Man, I spent a lot of time with him during the rehearsals and performances and remember his beautiful voice as well.
The last memory I have of your dad (and mother) was when my wife and I spent a couple of days at Jill's B & B in Austin. We sat around the evening sharing memories of our times in Ottumwa and it was an experience I will not forget.
We are thinking of you all at this difficult time.
Sara Johnson Blaha
May 8, 2008
Dear Reji, Jill and Ted,
I'm so very sorry for your loss. Your dad was an amazing man (which of course you already know)--such a presence, such talent, and that smile! It's been many years since I've seen or heard about your family, I guess, but I have many fond memories, especially of OCP and The King and I (because of Mom's and Dad's involvement). In my husband's office at home we have a painting (by my mom) of your house in the country. I treasure it, especially now that my folks are gone. Peace to you and your families during this difficult time.
How you can show support
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Susan Hunter
May 8, 2008
To the Bickford family, My condolences in the death of this fine dentist, because of this kind gentle man I never had a fear of dentists. Dr. Bickford cared for my teeth when I was very young, as he was a school dentist for Ottumwa. Because of him I never dread going to the dentist....One never knows the difference one makes in anothers life. I experss my sympathy. Sue H. (now 57y.o.)(Cedar Rapids, Iowa)
STEVE NICKEL
May 7, 2008
Dear Reji, Jill & Ted: My sincerest condolences and deepest sympathy to each of you at the loss of your dad. Thank you for allowing so very many of us in Ottumwa to share and experience the charm, wit, and respect your father extended to each person he came in contact with professionally and/or personally. Your decision to honor him at Arlington is most fitting for such a gracious and honorable man.
Sharon Cohagan Lovern
May 7, 2008
To the Bickford family: My deepest sympathy to the family of a dentist that was more than a professional, but also personable. After pulling my teeth as a 10 year old he presented me with a necklace and bracelet at the hospital. He and Mrs Bickford always made you feel like family. He will be greatly missed. He'll be singing in heaven.
susan blevens
May 7, 2008
Old neighborhood families will miss the Dr. responsible for the Sunday Morning Piano music, which he used to share with those lucky enough to hear.....Many wonderful childhood memories the Bickford family will remain apart of the West Street and West Park Group, of happy kids now grown up.
Sympathy to Reji, Jill and Ted.
Susan Anderson Blevens, Cole Camp, Missouri
Julie Johnson Scharnberg
May 7, 2008
My sympathy goes to the whole Bickford family. I have very fond memories of stories my parents told after visiting your wonderful home in Ottumwa and working on the King and I with your dad. It sounds like his life was very full and happy for him. One can only hope for that for oneself.
Fran Watson Brothers
May 7, 2008
Dear Bickford Family,
I was afraid of the dentist until I became a patient of Dr. Bickford. He was professional and kind, and had a subtle sense of humor. I always regretted that I wasn't involved with Ottumwa Community Players when the legendary Bickfords were active and performing... what a charming couple! May God be with you during these difficult times.
Jane Pohlson
May 7, 2008
Hello to you all
What a beautiful man. I can still see the shock of hair falling on his forehead as he hummed a fancy tune while working on my teeth. He was always happy, always positive and kind. A father like no other I had seen. Not afraid to love, to show emotion, to guide. How lucky for all of you to be a part of such a dynamic family. Your parents seemed the perfect compliment to each other. And you were all the perfect compliment to them.
My heartfelt sympathy to you
Ann Pepper-Paul
May 7, 2008
Dr. Bickford was my dentist for years and he was so gentle. My sympathy to his children at this sad time.
Constance (Carr) Miller
May 6, 2008
I remember the fun I use to have at
the Bickford household with Reji
and her sister and brother. The entire Bickford family were always
very nice and caring. Dr. and Mrs.
Bickford were very generous to others, active in the church, and to the community.
Showing 1 - 13 of 13 results
Make a Donation
in Burton Bickford's name
How to support Burton'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 Burton Bickford'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
