Mr. Charles "Chief" Burton

Chief was a Sig brother of my late husband Wouter Keesing '64 at Gettysburg College. Don DeMaio says it quite precicely. Chief was a caring and compassionate individual. He showed up at the hospital with Melinda to be of support to my family as my husband was dying. My sympathies and thoughts to his children and Melinda.

Chief was my ‘little brother' at Sigma Chi fraternity, Gettysburg College. We lost contact after I graduated. Some years later when my very close friend and fellow Sig, Wouter Keesing ’64 lay dying in the hospital, Chief came. He was so very compassionate, caring, and helpful. That was the man I knew at Gettysburg and that’s the person I shall always remember.
I am very saddened by his death and my sympathies and thoughts go out to his family.
Donald DeMaio ‘65

Chief was a wonderful friend and dedicated person. Having seen him last shortly before his death, it is still hard to think that he won't be here with his always quick responses and new adventures to share. He was an inspiration to many, including my son who was a good friend of his daughter. My son often recounted his adventures and discussions with Chief and looked up to him as a man that achieved in life what many strive to. We will always remember Chief helping many with great caring and compassion.
Chief--you are missed--

As is true for so many of us, Chief was both a mentor and friend. While we have not been in close contact these last few years, his passing touches me to my core and reminds me of both how precious and brief life is. I can hardly imagine one living a more engaged and compassionate life. The week before his last round with the hospital, i received a call late at night from Chief. As we shared our lives and he told me he was still working, i asked why? He said because he enjoyed it and he wanted to continue to contribute. i know you will always be contributing to my life, now and beyond; Chief, i love you and will miss you deeply. jim pelkey

My family and I are greatly saddened to hear of Chief's passing. I met Melinda and Chief our freshmen year at Gettysburg, and we spent many, many days together during those four years. We reunited in the 90's and I remembered why I loved those two so much, and how lucky I was to have them in my life during those formative years. Chief was ever the idealist, a giver to all, and embodied the word 'thoughtful.' He will be greatly missed by me and my family. Gone too soon.

SAD news...we were friends for over 25 years, a fine person in all respects, he will be greatly missed, a good citizen gone. Steve and Linda Millard, Portola Valley, Ca.

Chief was a great friend who was always willing to help. He loved Gettysburg College and I am proud to have served with him as a trustee. Chief helped convince me to join the board where he served as my mentor. Though he was all business on board affairs, he was very warm and interested in his colleagues as people. I recall how he had his relative who was a physical therapist call me after I herniated a disc in my neck to offer suggestions for comfort. He also took an interest in aiding my daughter in her college search. All of this and more, even though we only worked together a few years.

Chief, I miss you and I am honored to have been your friend.

One on the greatest men I have ever had the privilege of knowing. His knowledge and wit were only matched only by the size of his heart. He will be missed by all that have had the honor of knowing him. Rest in Peace Chief.

Chief was a great bother. He was always there for us and you could find not fined a better person. We love and miss you.

Chief was so loyal and commited to whatever he undertook. He loved Gettysburg College and he was loved by those who had the privilege of knowing or working with him. While he succeeded in the challenging goals he set for himself, he modestly denied that he was the reason for such accomplishments. His unselfish dedication to help others caused many to step up as working partners with Chief. He will be sadly missed, but he has left a strong legacy with his friends.

Chief was an early mentor and lifelong friend. He helped me and so many others. He will be missed by all.

Chief was a friend and an invaluable mentor - and will be missed by many.

Chief was a leader and friend for over 10 years on the Gettysburg College Board of Trustees. He always exemplified the best in dealing with difficult decisions. As a former Marine, "Semper Fi, Chief, you served your Nation well."

Chief was a warm and generous friend. My prayers are with his extended family.

I was deeply saddened to learn of the death of Charles "Chief" Burton. He will be deeply missed by the Gettysburg College community and by many friends. You are in the thoughts and prayers of this community.

The Rev. Dr. Joseph A. Donnella II
Chaplain, Gettysburg college

chiefy rest in peace my old friend

Kathy and I are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of our dear friend and colleague, Chief Burton. Chief was a fun-loving person who seemed to always enjoy life. I met him (1963) during our first week on campus, in Rice Hall; he introduced himself as Charles Burton, but told me, "You can call me Chief." I called him Charles until about 1990, and then I relented and called him "Chief"! He was an extraordinary person, a great friend to many, talented, bright, encouraging, kind, generous and giving. We are better people for having him as a friend.
Mac and Kathy Jones

I celebrate a life well lived and remember him as a kind and generous person. My condolences to the family.

All of us at Spring Capital Partners were sorry to learn of Chief's passing. He was a member of our Advisory Board for five years and we consider oursleves fortunate to have been able to profit from his knowledge and experience. Beyond that, he was a great friend to me personally. I was his sub-tenant at the Bellevue for four years. I will never forget that as I was launching Spring Capital in 1998 Chief generously offered me space in his offices. Spending time with Chief and Walter was the best. Those men could tell great stories.

May the memories you have support you through this difficult time. You and Chief will be in my thoughts and prayers.