Robert Burgus Obituary

Dear Friends and Family, It is with profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of Robert "Bob" Burgus. A devoted husband, father, son, brother, and friend, Bob passed away peacefully at his residence at the age of 75. He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Burgus, Sr. Born in Des Moines, Iowa, in 1950, to Rose and Robert Burgus, Bob possessed a remarkable intellect and a lifelong dedication to learning. His early academic achievements included being selected to read his essay on Abraham Lincoln's legacy on KIOA radio. As the salutatorian of Dowling High School, he was honored with the Aquinas Key for Scholastic Achievement, and excelled in Mock Trial and on the top state debate team alongside his friend Dave Polich. Bob's entrepreneurial spirit was demonstrated through his participation in a Junior Achievement Company, and he maintained a longstanding membership in MENSA, consistently seeking intellectual engagement. His passion for knowledge remained a significant aspect of his life, as evidenced by his expressed interest in pursuing a CPA in his final year. Bob's innate curiosity about the mechanics of various systems led him to earn a degree in Computer Science from Iowa State University in 1972. He established a successful professional career in database management and as the Software Installation Lead at Massey Ferguson, Schering Plough, and IBM, where he cultivated enduring friendships. Beyond his professional endeavors, Bob was deeply involved in understanding and working with home electronics, automobiles, small engines, and radios, with a particular fascination for steam engines and trains. He possessed an exceptional ability to solve intricate problems, approaching challenges with unwavering determination. Whether it involved repairing a seemingly inoperable appliance or unraveling the complexities within his favorite books and radio dramas, Bob was persistent in his pursuit of solutions. He generously shared his knowledge and expertise, consistently consulting manuals and offering thoughtful advice to assist his loved ones. His final act of service involved assisting extended family with their tax preparations. This inherent aptitude for problem-solving naturally extended to a passion for education. Bob dedicated considerable time to supporting his children and extended family with their academic pursuits, fostering their interests in technical and scientific disciplines, and encouraging a diverse range of hobbies. He volunteered as the scoutmaster for Joseph's Boy Scout troop, where he cultivated an appreciation for electronics, languages, astronomy, science, mathematics, history, finance, and practical maintenance skills. His love of learning also inspired memorable family road trips to national parks and monuments, combining educational experiences with his enjoyment of photography. A devout Catholic, Bob was deeply committed to his faith and service. He volunteered extensively with his wife Elaine and family in preparation for Pope John Paul II's visit to the United States in 1979. For over 40 years, he was an active member of St. Ann's Church in Bartlett, TN. He instilled in his family the importance of community contribution through volunteering at local charitable organizations and for Madonna Learning Center, a school serving children with special needs, as well as at St. Ann's Church. Bob is survived by his beloved wife Elaine, his children Joseph and Amy, his mother Rose, his siblings Pat Callanan (Bob), Rose Sanders (Dave), Mike (Pat), and Greg (Louann), and numerous cherished nieces and nephews. A private service to celebrate Bob's life will be held on Tuesday, May 6th, at St. Ann's Church in Bartlett, TN, located at 6529 Stage Road, Bartlett, TN 38134. The schedule for the service is as follows: 10:00 AM - Visitation 11:00 AM - Funeral Mass 12:15 PM - Celebration of Life In lieu of floral tributes, the family respectfully requests that donations be made in Bob's memory to Madonna Learning Center or St. Ann's Church in Bartlett, Tennessee. We express sincere gratitude for your love and support, - Elaine, Joseph, and Amy