EMBDEN – Louie F. Burrill, 78, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on June 2, 2018. He was born in Norridgewock on January 11, 1940 the son of Mildred (Bell) and Ray Burrill. Louie graduated from Skowhegan High School, class of 1958 before completing a bachelor’s degree in education at the University of Maine in 1962. Lou married Mary Ann Cook in January 1961. After he graduated from UMaine, they moved to Bingham where he taught physical education and they raised their family until 1970. At that time, Lou transferred to Carrabec schools and the family moved to North Anson. For 5 years, Lou and Mary Ann owned and operated Skowhegan Driving School and Lou taught driving in area towns and schools. After teaching for 30 years, Lou went on to sell insurance for the National Association of the Self Employed for 17 years. He was recognized many times for leading the team in sales.
Lou was a lifelong athlete who passed on his love of athletics to his children, grandchildren and countless students for many years. From his childhood into his senior years, he was always physically active and competitive. In high school, Lou led the football team as their quarterback. He played football one year in college and he even tried out for the Red Sox. In his 50’s he was even ranked #1 in is age class in the State tennis competition. His competitive streak also served him well as he drove mini stock cars at Unity Raceway. For 3 out of the 5 years he competed, he was also #1 is points.
Over the years, Lou coached many basketball teams from Bingham and North Anson who reached the tournaments. He also coached baseball, golf and tennis teams. In his free time, Lou even umpired at local baseball games.
Lou is survived by his wife of 57 years, Mary Ann Burrill; son, Darron Burrill of Embden and his partner Pamela Parks of CA; daughter, Lori Burrill and her partner Ken Pomelow of Norridgewock; grandchildren, Cory McGowan and his wife Ashley of Madison, Jordan McGowan of Skowhegan, and Morgan and Ashley Burrill of Embden and their mother Tina Burrill of South Solon; great grandson, Evan McGowan; niece, Wanda Mann and her husband Russell of Meriden, CT; sisters-in-law, Janice Withee-Burrill of FL and Loretta Nixon of Skowhegan and her family, Betty and Linwood Crowell and family of Charleston, SC; and his furbaby, Winner. He was predeceased by his parents; brother, Don Burrill; and aunt, Rena Blaisdell.
A graveside service will be held at 1pm, Saturday, June 9 at Southside Cemetery, Skowhegan followed by a casual gathering at Coburn Park in Skowhegan. Those attending the gathering are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets.
Lou’s family extends their deepest appreciation to Diana and the nurses and staff of VNA Home Health and Hospice especially Shannon, Bob and Sharlyn for the compassionate care they provided Lou and the entire family.
In honor of Lou’s dedication to teaching and coaching the youth in his community, memorial donations may be made to the Louie Burrill Memorial Louie Burrill Youth Sports Fund - 56 Main St., Madison ME 04950.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Smart & Edwards Funeral Home, 183 Madison Ave., Skowhegan, Maine.
