Robert Franz Burger

Bob was born on April 5, 1929, the eldest of seven children, to Joseph and Eleanor Burger. He grew up in Webster Groves, Missouri, which he truly considered home for the remainder of his life. Bob grew up in a musical household and played the piano for enjoyment. As a youth he went to summer camp at Cheley Camp in Estes Park and gained a love of the mountains. He also attended many St. Louis Cardinals (and Browns) games at old Sportsman’s Park. He followed the Cardinals closely and loved to regale everyone with stories of their 1942 World Series Championship team.

In the late 1940s the family relocated to Southern California. Bob attended the University of Southern California (USC) majoring in German, in which he became fluent. Following graduation Bob discerned a call to ordained Ministry in the Episcopal Church. Following his ordination he served as a Parish priest in Port Townsend, Washington, Ridgecrest, California and culminated his career in Torrington, Wyoming.

After retirement Bob relocated to the Estes Park area. He volunteered at Rocky Mountain National Park as a way of giving back. He also became deeply involved in the church community at Saint Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church, where he was a beloved member of the congregation.

Bob loved to travel, and especially loved photography, particularly mountain scenery. He was also a voracious reader, and was well known as a regular patron of the Estes Valley Library. He also enjoyed the company of his longtime friend Bonnie Fulford-Stewart.

Bob is survived by his sisters Margery Burger, Carolyn (Lynnie) Long, and brother John as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents Joseph and Eleanor, as well as siblings Joesph (Josie), Dorothy, and Father Charles Burger, who also served as a priest in the Episcopal Church. Robert will be interred at St Bartholomew’s. A memorial service will be held at St Bartholomew’s on Saturday, June 13, 2026.