Mr. Thomas Roland Burd

In listening to the impassioned eulogies by the family, I was moved to add my comments on a close business associate and a very dear friend.

My initial introduction to Tom was not personal but came about when I replaced him as a State Farm Claim Rep in Midland Michigan. Soon thereafter I had the opportunity to personally meet Tom in State Farms regional office in Marshall Michigan. It did not take long for both a professional and personal relationship to develop. Over the next 20+ years I either worked with or for Tom as we followed each other across the country. Over that time, we grew close as friends, our families shared time together, and like so many other of Toms friends we were also bonded as die-hard Michigan Wolverine fans. While in Michigan we shared many games in the Big House, and in California witnessed a number of Rose Bowl appearances as well.

When you share so much both at work and at play and witness each others families grow you seem to develop a feeling that such a relationship will just always be there. Of course, thats not the way it works and thus we like everyone mourn the passing of a dear friend. Sue, our deepest sympathy to you and the family you will always be in our prayers and please let us know if ever there is anything we can do.

May God rest and bless this gentle man. Rest in peace my dear friend (Go Blue indeed!!)

Mary and Dan

What a guy! An infectious smile, love of family and quite the sense of humor. I had the privilege of visiting Tom and Sue 40 years ago in Thousand Oaks when Sue s sister Helen stayed with them. Forty years ago, Tom offered me a plum, of course I said No Thank You because I had never had one. If you know me, Im very picky so I always answer no when Im afraid to try anything. For the rest of my trip, and whenever our paths would cross, Tom would offer me a plum, even if he had none to offer! Sue would chuckle, and hed leave me alone. Maybe someday Tom Ill try one, but at the age of 60, Ive never had a plum! Until we meet again! Barb Napolitan-McDougal, Port Huron, Michigan

Meeting Tom and Sue when we moved to Sun City in 2002, was one of the best things to happen to us. We found we had much in common but the best was getting together and having a "toddy." A toast to you my friend, GO BLUE
Much Love, Joe and Lori Sepanik

Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire family. Beautiful service to honor Tom. Hope to see you all again soon. Love, Staci and Luke

Thinking of Tom and the rest of the family. Very nice service. Miss you all.

In loving memory of a great, kind and wonderful man. Ill never forget our donut runs and all the happy memories shared. We will love you and miss you always Uncle Tom. Rest in Paradise.

Our hearts are with you, your family and friends as God embraces you with open arms. May all of the love, laughs and eternal memories live on in everyone's heart that you touched in one way or another; spoken or felt.

Dear Sue, TJ and Cheri: The loss of a husband and father leaves a big hole in the heart. One that is never filled. You eventually adjust to a new life that always has that missing piece - which is always a remembrance and is filled with love. I remember Tom at many Thanksgiving dinners watching the football fare and enthusiastically cheering on his favorite team. My prayers for Tom - rest peacefully and lovingly in the Lord. You are all in my thoughts and prayers now and through the days ahead. God bless you all - Patti

I want you to know you meant the world to us. Little did we know how blessed we were when you joined our family. There are no words to describe the loss we all feel. As a Brother-in-Law and an Uncle, we could not have asked for better! Our hearts will hurt when we hear your name but our memories of you will put smiles on our faces. All the stats you kept us up to date on, our rivalry and the banter we shared. That gosh forsaken color scheme your wardrobe was draped in...I know you were color blind! I'm told it will live on through your son! I must admit he has an unfair advantage with you as his 12th man! It won't be the same without you but I know you will always be by our side. Thank you for everything Tom. Thank you for loving and caring for my Sister the way you did, for raising incredible children, for always being there to lend an ear or give an encouraging word. Thank you for brightening our lives and the lives of so many who crossed your path. You will truly be missed! I know you entered heavens gates shouting GO BLUE so I will finish with GO GREEN!

Tom, the best brother-in-law...ever!
Love,
Neil and Ellen

Dad, I will always remember the great memories we had. We saw a lot of great games and players over the years. I will miss our talks, especially after a U of M game. You taught me so much in life. I can never thank you enough. You will be missed by so many. You are now with the angels. I love you. Go Blue!