Lawrence Ellison Burks Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Lawrence Ellison Burks, of Traverse City, passed away at his home at Cordia on December 10th, 2021. Larry was born on April 8th, 1933 to Ernest and Hilda (Kerr) Burks at his family home in Detroit. He proudly served in the United States Navy. In 1966 Larry met the love of his life, Susan Hall. They soon knew they were meant to be together. They united in marriage on September 9th, 1967 in Gladwin. Together they raised three children in Midland and loved spending family time at their cottage on Crystal Lake. Larry had a long career in banking, supported by advanced degrees from both Michigan State University and University of Michigan. He served in officer positions at National Bank of Detroit and later Chemical Bank, retiring as President and Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors. Larry was very civic minded and a community leader, volunteering in many organizations including Frankfort Rotary (a Paul Harris fellow), Rails to Trails in Benzie County, St. John’s and St. Philip Episcopal Churches, the Strosacker Foundation (Treasurer), Saginaw and Midland Municipal Water Corporation (Director and Chairman), Midland Credit Bureau (Director), the Grand Traverse Regional Foundation (Director). Larry will always be remembered as a generous and kind gentleman who believed in the power of helping others. He inspired many. Larry was preceded in death by his parents and brother Arnold. Larry is survived by his wife of 54 years, Susan; their children, Adam (Andrea) Burks, Shawn (Julie) Burks, Elizabeth (Christopher) McGrath; and grandchildren, Zinnia and Lachlan Burks and Griffin and Nola McGrath. The memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 18, 2021 at 2:00 pm at St. Philip Episcopal Church in Beulah with visitation beginning one hour prior. The service will be webcasted on the church facebook page for those unable to attend in person. The family would like memorial contributions to be made out to Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation, Munson Hospice, or Inland Seas Education Association. Please visit www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com to share your memories and condolences with the family.

Lawrence Ellison Burks

April 8, 1933 - December 10, 2021