Rodney David Burgess

“A Man of Faith, Family and Friends”

Rodney Burgess passed into Glory after 92 wonderful years on Wednesday, July 8, 2015. Born and raised in Brockton, he was an outstanding scholar, athlete, and musician.

He attended Northeastern University and joined the United States Navy during World War II. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Tufts College after also attending Princeton University and Cornell University as part of the V-12 Midshipman School.

Shortly after the war Rod married Evelyn M. Carlson and they had five children, living in North Easton; West Caldwell, New Jersey; Monroeville, Pennsylvania; and happily retiring to East Dennis in 1985.

Working for over 40 years for Westinghouse International, Rod traveled to more than 70 countries managing overseas activities as an industrial consultant. He entertained his children and grand-children with stories of unusual customs and foods he encountered (eating monkey parts for one).

Being a man of strong faith throughout his lifetime, his testimony was evident wherever he lived. Rod was committed to serving his Lord whether it be as a worship leader, deacon, or as a pitcher on the ball field. He was also a long time active member and speaker of the Gideons. His greatest desire was the salvation of his family and to show his love of Jesus Christ.

When hearing of Rod’s death many family and friends sent special remembrances. Words used were: hero, loving uncle, compassionate, fun, horseshoes, squishy face hugs, ice cream, leader, pitching, Red Sox, Cold Storage Beach, doling out bananas, Sarasota, his huge personality, human sports encyclopedia, enjoyed the limelight, hymn singing, seaweed toupee, gusto, birthday parties, laughing, playing catch, tennis balls, driving the beach car, raspberry Danish, Cape Cod league, “chowda”, his love for us. These are mere adjectives that only begin to describe this gregarious and loving man.

He is survived by his wife, Evelyn of 69 years, his children Lynda Borjesson (Bill Lewis), David Burgess (Barbara), Paul Burgess (Janice), Jean Taromina (John), and Merilee Ruttger (James), 14 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. Rod is also survived by a most loving sister, Audrey Appleton and eight nieces and nephews.

A time of visitation will be held on Friday, July 17 at 9:00 am at the Cape Cod Covenant Church on 11 Satucket Road, Brewster followed by a funeral service at 10:00 am. Interment at 2:00 at The National Cemetery, Bourne. In lieu of flowers the family respectfully asks for donations to Pioneers, Inc., (Global Missions Organization), 10123 William Carey Dr., Orlando, Florida 32832. Please write checks specifically to “Pioneers” and include on memo line: “In memory of Rodney Burgess”. (Website: www.pioneers.org).