James Burdick

Born October 23, 1936, in Marquette, a son of Louis and Clarissa (Pringle) Burdick, Jim was raised in Marquette. While still attending Graveraet High School, he enlisted in the Michigan Army National Guard in 1953 for two years. In 1955, Jim entered the US Navy, where he served until his honorable discharge in 1959 and also received his GED while in service. Returning to Marquette, he was employed for a time with Olson Motors as a mechanic. In 1961, Jim again entered the military, this time the US Army, serving until 1964. Jim relocated to Detroit where he was employed as a mechanic with ANR Freight System for 30 years, retiring in October 1996 and coming back to Marquette.

In retirement, he was employed locally in security with Menards for 14 years. Jim loved animals, working on engines, picking blueberries, and helping people whenever he could. He enjoyed children, and his grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and neighborhood children were all beneficiaries of his many kindnesses and gifts throughout the years.

Jim is survived by his son, Michael (Tina) Burdick of DeLand, FL; step-son, Aaron Rakowski (Christina) of Hudson, FL; 10 grandchildren, and 1 great-granddaughter and 2 great grandson; sisters, Gail (the late Tom) Cuff of Marquette, MI, Betty (Jeff) Mehlhoff of Gwinn, and Carol Pazolt of Escanaba, MI; brothers, Thomas (Carol) Burdick of Ypsilanti, Roger (Roberta) Burdick of Marquette; brother-in-law, James Mahn of Marquette, brother-in-law Joe Bourgeois of Rapid River; sister-in-law, Joanne Burdick of Gwinn; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents Louis and Clarissa Burdick; wife Sharon; son Jason: sisters Barbara Mahn, Sharon Burdick, Sandra Bourgeois, Marilee Burdick; brothers Louis (the late JoAnn) Burdick, Robert Burdick, Donald Burdick and Milton Burdick (the late Jean).

A graveside ceremony at Holy Cross Cemetery will take place Saturday, June 14th at 12:30. Immediately following a celebration of his life will take place at Presque Isle Pavilion from 2 – 5.

Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family, where condolences may be expressed online at www.fassbenderswansonhansen.com.