John Munson Burnham

John Munson Burnham, age 90, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 15, 2012 in San Jose, California. John was born in Traverse City on February 9, 1922 to Gordon L. and Mary Pauline Burnham and grew up on the peninsula in Grand Traverse Bay with sisters, Jean and Virginia. He joined the Merchant Marines during WWII and traveled the world delivering emergency supplies wherever needed. Though most “Liberty” ships carried no guns, over 200 were lost to torpedoes, mines and bombs. Through the years, he traveled as long as he was able, revisiting Egypt late in his life. John loved painting, classical music, writing short stories and enjoyed beauty. For over 25 years he was a steam engineer at the power plant at the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans.

Mr. Burnham was preceded in death by his loving wife, Glo Dee Burnham in 1990. Surviving are sons, Gordon (Rita), and Daniel (Evelyn); granddaughter, Chelsea (Matt); step granddaughters, Sharon, Katherine (Jason) and Crystal.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, October 22, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at Reyers North Valley Chapel, 2815 Fuller Ave. N.E., Grand Rapids with Chaplain Bob Dennis of the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday, October 21 from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. and again on Monday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 11:00. Burial will follow at Plainfield Township Cemetery.