Burton Lyle Shurlow, a man of wit and adventure, passed away peacefully on November 29, 2024, at the age of 94 in Wayne, Michigan.  Born on October 1, 1930, in Lapeer Michigan, to the late Earl and Neva Shurlow.  He spent his childhood years growing up in Vassar Michigan.  Burton’s life was one marked by dedication, laughter, and service to the community.

Burton’s journey through life was shared with his beloved wife Miriam for 65 years, with whom he built a loving family.  He was a cherished father to Carol Shurlow, Columbus, Ohio, William (Linda) Shurlow, Potterville, Michigan, and Jacquelyn (Shawn) Hallinan, Puyallup Washington.  As a brother, he is fondly remembered by Ardeth Westrope and predeceased by Arden Shurlow and Verna Hart.  The joys of grandfather were bestowed upon him by his grandchildren David, Julia, Bridget, Dustin, Megan and the late Christian, and his eight great-grandchildren.

After serving briefly in the Army, Burton pursued a career in education.  He attended Eastern Michigan University and obtained his BS and MS, as well as an educational specialist degree from Wayne State University.  He taught math at Wayne Memorial High School and developed the computer programming curriculum in 1965.

Burton had many interests.  At the age of 16 he obtained his pilot’s license and later owned a small plane.  He had numerous hobbies; woodworking, woodcarving, fishing at Peach Lake in West Branch, Michigan for 40 years, photography, traveling, camping, bicycling, and boating.

He served the community by volunteering his time building Habit for Humanity Houses in Western Wayne County and other areas in Michigan and southern states, serving on the Wayne Library Board for 20 years, and involved with the First Congregational Church in Wayne, Michigan.

Those who knew Burton Understood that beneath his quiet demeanor lay a reservoir of humor.  He told countless funny stories.

As we bid farewell to Burton, we reflect on a life well-lived and the legacy he leaves behind-a legacy of love, education and the pursuit of passions.  His memory will continue to inspire and guide us.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the following organizations:

Habitat for Humanity

Wayne Library Board

First Congregational Church of Wayne

Champions of Wayne and The Guidance Center