Louis Dow Burkhead

Louis Dow Burkhead, aged 91, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2013, in his home at Southminster in Charlotte, North Carolina. He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Michael and Jan Burkhead, of Asheville, NC and his son, Neil Burkhead, of Charlotte, NC. He has four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. His beloved daughter, Sara, died in 1983, and his cherished wife, Virginia, died in 2010 after 67 years of marriage.

L.D., as he was usually called, was born in Asheboro, North Carolina on February 13, 1922. He grew up in Asheboro, and graduated as the president of his class at Asheboro High School. He loved the outdoors and camping, and was an Eagle Scout. He met his wife to be, Virginia, in high school in Asheboro. After high school, he went to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and graduated in 1943 with a degree in business. Following graduation from college, he married Virginia, and then entered the United States Army and served until 1945. He was a decorated combat veteran who served in five major campaigns in the South Pacific during World War II.

After returning from the war, he went to work in the banking industry in Charlotte. Eventually, he left the bank and joined the N.C. State Motor Club, where he developed the international travel department. After this accomplishment, he established his own business in Charlotte, which became the International Travel Center. His wife, Virginia, joined the business in 1964, and his son, Neil, joined it in 1973. The International Travel Center specializes in educational travel, and introduced 100’s of young Charlotteans to the world. L. D. was quite a traveler himself, having traveled extensively on six continents. He often regaled the family with stories of his travels.

Towards the end of her life, his wife Virginia, was afflicted with Alzheimer’s Disease. L.D. was her devoted caregiver for many years. He was selfless and faithful until her death two years ago.

LD. was a member of St. John’s Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon, and was the church treasurer for 14 years. He was also the scoutmaster for the church’s troop. He was an avid student of the scriptures for as long as he could read. He was an active Christian, constant and compassionate. May he rest in his Lord forever.

When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet. Proverbs 3:24

A private graveside service will be held at the family gravesite in Asheboro.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Men’s Shelter of Charlotte, 3410 Statesville Avenue, Charlotte, NC.