Elbert J. Burdett

Elbert (Bert) J. Burdett

LEOMINSTER – Elbert (Bert) J. Burdett passed away on Thursday, September 7, 2023 at Sterling Village, Sterling, MA.  Elbert was born in Ann Arundel County MD, on January 31, 1932, the son of the late James E. Burdett and Ethel L. (Helmers) Burdett.

He is survived by his sons Michael J. Burdett and his partner Erin Montgrain of Fitchburg, Russell D. Burdett and his wife Kathleen, a daughter Gale M. Burdett all of Leominster, sister-in-law Mary-Ellen Lowder of VA, a granddaughter Katie Mae Johnson and her husband Alec of Winchendon, and a nephew Thomas W. Sawyer and his wife Caryl of VA.

He was predeceased by his wife of 67 years Bertha L. (Sawyer) Burdett, brother-in-law James T. Sawyer and grandson Gregory Maxim Burdett (AKA MRNVR).

Bert spent his childhood on his grandfather’s farm in Ann Arundel County moving to Annapolis, MD when he was 7. He graduated from Annapolis High School in 1950 and enlisted in the U.S. Army. He was stationed at Fort Devens, MA and met his wife Bertha at the Whalom Park roller rink when he literally knocked her off her feet. After leaving the Army he joined the National Guard retiring from the 101 Ordinance Co. based at Fort Devens, MA.  He worked for Branch Motor Express for many years before joining Peterborough Oil Co. which he retired from.

Bert was an active member of the Leominster-Fitchburg Lodge of Elks #1237 for over 35 years, serving 2-terms as Exalted Ruler. He was also a member of the Franco-American War Veterans.

He enjoyed preparing wonderful meals along with his wife to celebrate holidays and other occasions.  Family, friends, and friends-of-friends were always welcome at their table. He was an avid cribbage player, enjoyed spending time with his family, days at the beach, exploring the back roads of New England, riding his motorcycle and deer hunting with his sons. He also took great pride in his flower gardens. Bert was a good man and will be missed by all.

The family would like to thank Sterling Village and Trinity Hospice nursing staff who took care of Bert in his final days.

A funeral service for Bert will be held on Thursday, September 14th at 11am in the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 111 Glennallen St Winchendon MA. Calling hours in the Richardson Funeral Home 106 West St. Leominster are Wednesday, September 13th from 5 – 7pm.

In Lieu of flowers contributions can be made to the Mass Art Foundation, Gregory Burdett Class of ’05. Mass Art Foundation (note Gregory’s name and class on the check), 621 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115.

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