Gordon L. Burk, 76

Gordon L. Burk, 76, of Athol, passed away peacefully on Feb. 17, 2013. Gordon was born July 6, 1936, in Los Angeles, Calif. His parents were Alvin Burk and Edith Vanderpool.

Gordon lived in Los Angeles and did his schooling in that same area. Gordon received an associate's degree from L.A. Trade Tech. After graduation Gordon joined the Navy for four years. He served in the South Pacific for most of that time and was a Machinist Mate first class. Gordon enjoyed his time in the Navy and loved Japan.

Gordon had a job with the Southern Pacific Railroad for almost 40 years. He held several positions at the railroad during his tenure, and was an ON-CALL emergency technician for several years just before he retired. Gordon would repair broken locomotives and get them into the round house.

Gordon was married for close to 30 years to Bernice Lydeen. Bernice passed away in 2008 from Parkinson's disease. Gordon and Bernice moved to Athol in 1998. His mother Edith and father Alvin passed away in 2000.

He loved the Athol area for fishing, motorcycle riding and the local Indian Casino. He called Athol the great outdoors. Very peaceful. Gordon made several good friends in Athol — Daniela Snow (Athol), Judy, Theresa, Sheri, Deanna (Pines Restaurant — Athol) and Judy (Coeur d'Alene).

Gordon is survived by his brothers, Hoyt Vanderpool (Southern California — age 67) and Terry Vanderpool (Missouri — age 69); and a sister, Sharon Quinn (Kingman, Ariz., age 62).

At Gordon's request there will be no services held. Gordon will be cremated and his ashes spread in the ocean near Catalina Island. This is off the Southern California Coast. At his request no services will be held. Please visit Gordon’s memorial and sign his online guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.