John Burrill Obituary
This obituary was originally published in the Star Tribune.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sandy and Dick Linaker
February 27, 2007
Dear Sandy and Family, we were shocked to hear of Johns Passing,
please accept our deepest sympathy
and love. We loved John dearly.
Becky Loftus
February 8, 2007
As I read my sister's obituaries today I started to think about all the other people who hurt because of the loss of their loved ones. Then your family popped into my head. Please know my whole family thinks of you often and prays you are getting by if it is just for the day. I promise you that Katie is taking very good care of him, and he is probably taking care of her. How lucky we were to have such wonderful people in our lives while we did. When it hurts really bad take comfort in knowing there are people out there you may not have ever met that are praying for you.
Judy Maurer
February 7, 2007
some may call it a one-horse town
one store one bank one bar
one station to fill-up with gas, coffee, and talk
and, of course, the one and only John
who cared and
called us by name
learned what we loved
and remembered us
Remember him:
standing on the river dock
cap covering his balding head
bullhorn in hand, directing traffic
SLOW DOWN “!*!!*!!”
Listen for the echo of his bellow.
floating on his river
steering clear of sandbars, rockpiles
pulling docks, dodging deadheads
waving to all
Feel the flow in his part of paradise.
sitting on the river
marina deck full of diners
waiting for his smoked rib special
pulling up a chair to your table
Be wrapped in his stories
standing in his kitchen
mail piled high on the table
cleaning out the fridge
drinking coffee and sharing town talk
Savor his simmering spaghetti sauce.
driving his big red truck
spreading his gospel--
the joke of the day
making us laugh and blush
Celebrate the fun he delivered.
finding time to stop-by,
cheering you on
sharing your pain
yet hiding his demise
he drove on--so long
Wish him a continued merry journey.
Shelley Ashton (Klancke)
January 25, 2007
Jess and Eric
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
How you can show support
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
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.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Craig Flug
January 22, 2007
I was very sorry to hear about your loss. My deepest sympathies go out to your and your family.
Jason, Steffany & Boone Kindseth
January 22, 2007
Burrill Family,
Our prayers and thoughts are with you. Even in these tough times remember all the People and Places he has touched!
Kari Pidde (Russell)
January 21, 2007
Jess and Eric,
I am sorry to hear of your loss. Keep in your memories the times of laughter and joy with your dad. My thoughts are with you both.
Cindy Anderson
January 20, 2007
Dear Sandy and family,
I'm so sorry for your loss. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Cindy Anderson (Clausen)
Doug Olson
January 20, 2007
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts are with you at this time of sorrow.
Jeff Norton
January 19, 2007
We were sad to learn of John's death in the paper this morning. One of the great rights of spring we’ve had was to hear from John what happened over the winter on the river that we had missed. He was always friendly and helpful. We all will miss him. Unfortunately we will be in Chicago for Shannon's mother’s memorial service (she passed away on Wednesday). We will look forward to seeing you this summer and hearing about what no doubt will be a great out pouring of love for John and you at his memorial service. You’ll be in our thoughts, Jeff, Shannon, Pierce and Jacqueline Norton
Rebecca Otto
January 19, 2007
Dear Sandy,
Shawn and I were greatly saddened to hear of John's passing. He was a wonderful man and I considered him and mentor and friend. Our hearts and thoughts are with you.
Stacy Senterfeit
January 19, 2007
Eric,
I'm sorry to hear of your dad's passing and am thinking of you. Hang in there.
Love,
Stacy
Chuck & Mary Dexter
January 19, 2007
Dear Sandy, Jessica, Eric & family
You are in our thoughts and prayers. John was a friend to so many people. We have many great memories of our trips to Taylor Falls in the Fall and the Flotilla down the St. Croix in late summer. We will always think of him when we are on the river. With all our love,
Steve Lyden
January 19, 2007
Eric-
I am sorry to hear about your Dad. I never had the pleasure of meeting him, but I am betting he was something else. Sounds like he set a pretty high bar for you. Do your best to keep your head up, but I know it is tough.
Tracy and I are thinking about you!
Liz & Keith Hersey
January 19, 2007
We will all miss John tremendously and will remember him fondly - what a wonderful friend!
Marine people - let's plan a John flotilla next summer.
January 18, 2007
Eric~
Richie and I are deeply sorry to hear about your father....You will be in our thoughts and prayers!
Richie & Rip Coyle x0x0x0
Phyllis Knudsen
January 18, 2007
Eric & Amie - I have not met you Eric but worked with Amie. I lost my father when I was 7 and it still hurts. I am truly sorry for your loss and my prayers are with you and your entire family.
Adam, Christy & Sophia Bauman
January 18, 2007
Eric,
We are so sorry for the loss of your dad. I know how proud of you he must be. We have been holding you so close in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. You know we are here for you in whatever you need. We love you.
Greg Anderson
January 18, 2007
Eric,
Sorry for your loss, my thoughts are with you.
Drewsie
Roberta Miller
January 18, 2007
Dear Sandy, Eric, Jessie, and family: John was so much fun and had so much vigor. He helped me make sure Britta and Sarah were safe on the river, he and Sandy gave me a part-time job at the marina, John told jokes that I objected to so I could chide him, and gave advice when I wanted and needed it. I'll miss wathing him haul boats and the river updates.
Diane Torning
January 18, 2007
Eric and Jess
Sorry to hear about uncle Jack. Our thoughts and prayers are with you always. He will always be in your heart. Cathy and Tom send there love too.
Love Mike Diane Nic and Sara
Sandy Meister
January 17, 2007
Sandy,
My heart goes out to you at this most difficult time.
Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Sandy Meister
Carrie and Jason Knopick
January 17, 2007
Eric and Amie,
Our love and prayers go out to you and your family at this difficult time. Eric, it sounds like you are much like your dad in that you always have a friend to count on. Remember the good time and they will get you through the bad. Our deepest sympathies.
Britta Conway
January 17, 2007
Dear Sandy,
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family as you navigate this hard time in your life. John was and always will be a legend among Marine folk. His smile, his laugh and his big bear hugs are forever imprinted in my mind and heart.
With Love,
Britta, Aaron and Afton
Dani Olinski
January 17, 2007
John's love for his family, friends, and extended family will never be forgotten and will never be equaled. Hard to imagine Marine without his presence. He will be greatly missed and always remebered fondly by everyone who knew him.
-With much love and admiration from the original "Brats" of Marine. We love you John (Maggie M, Mandy F, Brenda I, Britta E, Morgan L, Sarah E, and Dani O)
Bob Dunbar
January 17, 2007
John was a big part of the river experience. The sense of humor he brought to the task of keeping pontoons moving and docks floating made living on the river more enjoyable. He was a valuable helper to all of us who needed help getting boats and docks in and out. I will miss his great love for the area and the personal friendship over the many years we enjoyed the river together. It will never be the same without him.
Michele Berner
January 17, 2007
Eric & Amy:
My deepest sympathies to you and your families.
Michele, Alex and Austin
Karen Garvey
January 17, 2007
Jessica,I know this is so hard for you and your family.When down, remember the good times he gave you and the smile will wipe the tears. He will always be in your heart and mind and that is a wonderful thing to have. It takes time to move on and do it your way. Love, Karen
Derald and Eileen Feda and family
January 17, 2007
Dear Eric and Jess,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. May all the great memories of your dad help you in the days ahead.
Greg Dysthe
January 17, 2007
Eric,
I'm so sorry to hear of the loss of your father. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Jen and Chris Sawotin
January 17, 2007
Eric,
We are so sorry to hear of your father's passing. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Andrea Patterson
January 17, 2007
Jessica, Eric and Sandy:
John (Jack, to me for ever) was a wonderful MAN!! He was everything and more. He is and forever will be missed.
Jessica and Eric: I love you both so much, my heart aches with you.
All our Love:
Andrea, Troy, Cassie and Neve
Patti Isaacs & Gauss Rescigno
January 17, 2007
Anyone who had a boat, paddled a canoe, ate a rib--or just loved to gab--had a friend in John. We're all better for having crossed paths with such a great guy! When we think of John, we can't help but smile.
Tammy Will
January 17, 2007
Eric,
I am so sorry to hear of your dad's passing. After reading his obituary, I can tell he was a wonderful man, with a unique character, who touched many lives. I can also now see that you inherited much from your dad. My thoughts and prayers are with you in this difficult time of grief. May your memories and the close bond you shared with your dad bring you comfort.
Sean Samec
January 17, 2007
Sandy and Family. I am so sorry for your loss. My family will always remember John's great sense of humor, the many great times at the Marine Landing, and seeing him out on his pontoon putting in docks and boats for everyone in Marine. He will be greatly missed. From my family to yours, I offer my deepest condolences.
Nick Herron
January 16, 2007
Eric
My love and prayers got out to you and all your family.
Nick
Mikey Roberts
January 16, 2007
Eric,
My deepest sympathies are with you. I am sure your father had to be a great man to have such a super son. Take care of yourself.
Eric Peterson
January 16, 2007
Eric
I am so sorry to hear about your dad. I'm sure he was a great man, just like you. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Elf
Mary Ann Buck
January 16, 2007
Sandy--What can anyone say...to loose the love of your life.... It was my joy and pleasure to have met him and shared many jokes and smiles with him. He will be so very missed by so many. May you find peace in your memories.
Amy Greden
January 16, 2007
Eric,
We are so very sorry to hear of the loss of your father. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this very difficult time. We love you...
Chris Safe & Amy Greden
Susan Winkelmann
January 16, 2007
Sandy and family:
I'm so, so sorry about John. He was so much the centerpiece of so many Marine things. It's hard to imagine the place without him. What an incredible spirit and what joy he spread. So much laughter. He is sorely missed.
Susan Winkelmann (and all the Winkelmanns)
Darlene Rines
January 16, 2007
Eric and Family, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May God take each of you by hand and guide you through the tough road ahead. My mother also died after a long illness... know that your hearts will always remember them at their best! My deapest sympathy.
Judi and Ron Nelson
January 16, 2007
Jessica- I am very sorry for your loss. It is not easy to loose a parent. We have you in our prayers and thoughts. God now has a better place for your dad.
Pat & Teri Harmon
January 16, 2007
Eric,
May the memories that fill your heart help to bring you comfort. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family Buddy!
John Curielli
January 16, 2007
Eric,
Both Kari and I am very sorry for your loss. After losing my mother to cancer, it was a comfort to know that they are in a better place with God. The Curielli's
January 16, 2007
EB,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Vonna
January 16, 2007
Eric, we are so sorry for your loss. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help support/comfort you and your family.
With our sympathies,
Rich, Karen and your Captain Jack's family
Mark and Laura Nelson
January 16, 2007
Sandy, Eric and Jessica -
We are very sorry for your loss. We never met John, but we know he was a great man. Like father like son. Our thoughts are with you...
Aaron, Nichole and Jordyn Vang
January 16, 2007
Eric,
Nichole and I are here for you if you need anything. We are sorry for your loss.
Love the Vangs
Donald Maurer
January 16, 2007
I've lost a good friend. He fought the good fight, now he may rest and enjoy the everlasting river of light from our Lord Jesus Christ. We are sad for his loss to us, but we celebrate a good life and the joy he now finds in his eternal home.
Peggy Campbell
January 16, 2007
Sandy, Our prayers and thoughts are with you in your loss. We and so many will miss John and all that he was in the Marine Community. Always a smile, always a joke. always a hug. Letter on its way to you as soon as ice allows anyone including mail people out of their houses. Our love, Rod and Peg
Ann and Andy Kirn
January 16, 2007
Sandy and Family,
Ann and I are so sorry to learn of your loss. When we think of John we will always remember the smiles he brought to our faces every time we saw him. His friendly and jovial spirit will live on in our hearts. We feel your loss and wish you comfort during this difficult time. With all our love,
Ann Miller
January 16, 2007
Scott & I would like to send our heartfelt sympathy to you all. We LOVE Uncle Jack! We had a great visit a couple weeks ago before he went home. We'll never forget his tender kisses and strong hugs!
Lots of Love,
Ann & Scott Miller
January 16, 2007
Sandy, Eric and Jessica - I'm so sorry for your loss. We will pray for strength for you to get through this trying time. All our love - Lynda, Darnell and Eric.
Forrest & Linda Tibbetts
January 16, 2007
Sandy & Family -
We are sorry for your loss. We feel blessed to have known John and to call him a friend. John always faced everyday with a smile and was able to pass this on to everyone he met. John will be greatly missed but I believe he will always live on by your side, watching over you with love. We were blessed to have him in our wedding this past August. God bless.
Jeannie Davis
January 16, 2007
Sandy and family...we are so sorry for your loss. We will miss John and his sense of humor. I will miss him honking and waving everytime he went by our house with a boat from Butternut Falls. I looked forward to that. We will also miss him telling everyone jokes at Roberta's. Take Care, Jeannie Davis and family
Showing 1 - 56 of 56 results
Make a Donation
in John Burrill's name
People and places connected with John
Recent Obituaries
How to support John's loved ones
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 more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
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 moreWays to honor John Burrill'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
Sponsored