Hugh Lamar Burdick

Hugh Burdick

Glenwood, Utah

Hugh Lamar Burdick, 75, of Glenwood, passed away at home on Saturday, May 18, 2013 after complications from diabetes. He was born in Valley Park, Missouri on October 13, 1937 to Lamar and Eula Mae Barrett Burdick. His parents taught him the values of determination and hard work.

He married Geraldine Worwood in 1960, later divorced. He married Anita Louise Livingston in 1964. In 1973, Hugh lost his wife, Anita, the mother of three of his children, in an accident. He married Marla V. Balch, 1975 in Las Vegas, Nevada. October 1976, the marriage was solemnized in the Manti Temple and he was also sealed to Anita at that time. He loved and raised Marla’s three children as his own and was offended by the words "step-family". To him, a blended family was just a happy family and nothing less. He was a hero to many. As a teen, he risked his life to rescue a family from an explosion at a gas station. He also had great compassion for unfortunate, disadvantaged, or injured people and animals. He always rescued stranded travelers with his mechanic skills, staying up all night, often in harsh conditions, to get them back on the road. Hugh was very generous and giving of his time and talents. Other than those he served, few knew of his sacrifices because he had a quiet disposition and never once bragged about his good deeds. Additionally, Hugh was a brilliant musician. His favorite memories were from his travels around the country performing with his violin in the family band. Hugh had worked in the oil fields near Rangely, Colorado. He was a member of the U.S. Army Combat Surveillance and Target Acquisition Command at Ft. Huachuca, AZ where he worked with surveillance drones and achieved "expert" status in target acquisition. Hugh was a copper miner in Bisbee, AZ at 3,200’ underground. He retired from U.D.O.T. as a heavy equipment mechanic.

Creating family memories in the great outdoors and spending time with grandchildren were his passions. Thankfully, there are countless remembrances to be treasured. Heaven is now filled with more music, smiles, and compassion. Hugh already has experience as a guardian angel, proven by the way he lived his life. His family is sure to be blessed with his continued presence.

Hugh is survived by his wife of 38 years, Marla; children: Becky Lynn Hawkes, Kearns; Joy (Bill) Duncan, Cedar City; Kay Nelson, Richfield; Barry Burdick, St. George; Troy (Marisa) Biffath, West Jordan; Christina Garcia, Glenwood; Johnny (Alma) Biffath, Richfield; 28 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren; sister, Jerri Lou Ashurst, Roy.

He was also preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Larry Burdick and John Burdick; sisters, Dolores Rowley and Jackie Conwell; and one great-grandchild, Kloey Mae Costa.

Graveside services and interment will be held Tuesday, May 21, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. in the Richfield City Cemetery with military rites provided by the V.F.W. Sevier Post #5050 and Utah Honor Guard. Funeral Directors: Magleby Mortuary, Richfield, Salina and Manti.