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Obituary For Lewis Burgman
Lewis Sidney Burgman passed away peacefully at home early Sunday morning, July 16, 2023. He was born June 25, 1940 in Valdosta, Georgia to Charles and Ora Lee Burgman. He grew up in a large family of eight children on a small farm near Valdosta. He was educated in the public schools of Lowndes County. Following his high school graduation in 1958, he enrolled at Ft. Valley State College. Lewis worked on the college farm while at Ft. Valley, but found time to pledge Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity. During his senior year, he met the “love of his life”, Carolyne Carter, who was a freshman.
After graduation from Ft. Valley, Lewis immediately enrolled in the School of Veterinary Medicine at Tuskegee Institute in Alabama. In 1966, he received his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. He started his career with the U.S. Department of Agriculture in the Meat and Poultry inspection program. Lewis worked his way up through the ranks and received many promotions throughout his nearly 40-year career with the USDA. His final position before retiring in 2006 was District Manager in charge of food inspection in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Kentucky.
In 1977, Lewis was asked to join the US Army Reserves in the Civil Affairs Branch as the veterinarian on the public health team. Over the next 10 years, he worked hard and was promoted to Colonel. Lewis’ unit, the 360 the Civil Affairs Brigade, was activated during the 1991 Desert Storm and he served in Saudi Arabia and Iraq. For his service, he was awarded the Bronze Star for “exceptionally meritorious achievement in support of actions against a hostile force.” With 23 years of outstanding credible service, Lewis retired from the Army Reserves in 2000.
In retirement, Lewis was determined to stay active and give back. He volunteered with the Greensboro Urban Ministry and headed the food pantry at his church to serve the neighborhood residents. He was a faithful member of St. Matthews United Methodist Church for over 34 years. He served in many positions at his church, the district and conference level. Although his plate was very full, he always found time to indulge in his passion - GOLF.
Lewis was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Ora Lee Burgman; three brothers, Lee Burgman, Lawson Burgman, and Nathaniel Burgman; and one sister Mary Alice Harris. Lewis is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Carolyne; two daughters, Alicia (Bryan) Stewart of Charlotte, NC and Anessa Burgman of Greensboro, NC; two grandchildren, Amanda and Myles Stewart; one sister, Dorothy (Alton) Burris of Fitzgerald, GA; two brothers, Wayne Burgman and Ronald (Rachel) Burgman of Valdosta, GA; one sister-in-law, Gwen Burgman of Valdosta, GA; a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins and other relatives and friends.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Burgman Scholarship at SMUMC, 600 East Florida Street, Greensboro, NC 27406 or AuthoraCare Collective (Hospice), 2500 Summit Ave, Greensboro, NC 27405.
A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, July 22, 2023 11am at St. Matthews United Methodist Church, 600 E Florida St, Greensboro NC 27406. Visitation 10:30am.
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Essie Evans planted 5 trees in memory of Lewis Burgman . - July 21, 2023
Dr Burgman exemplified a life of service to his nation, his family, and his soldiers. Colonel Burgman was my boss for 6 years in the 360th Civil Affairs Brigade (ABN). He was the best person I have ever worked for in my entire civilian and military career. I don't recall him ever issuing an order. Instead he asked you to do something and he did it in a way that you were eager to complete the task he wanted done. He always had a calm and steadfast demeanor. You could count on him being available anytime of the day or night to recommend a solution to problem. And he was always right and you knew his advice was based on experience and knowledge. As a young Captain and new doctor I was inexperienced in the workings of the military, especially a high profile unit. COL Burgman was my guide. He had more confidence in me than I did in myself, and for that I will always be grateful. He was awarded the coveted Legion of Merit upon his retirement. I will miss him. Until Valhalla.
Dr Mark T Hash
Dear Dr. Burgman and Family, I was so sorry to learn of your father's passing. After reading his obituary, it is clear that you are definitely your father's daughter - both servants of the Lord. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. May God hold you all close in the palm of His hand. Love, Michelle, Shannon, and Lane Hicks and Kim Wright
Carolyn and Family: My condolences. So Sorry for your LOSS. He was my friend.
Spent many evenings sitting and serving with Lewis while serving at the Winter Emergency shelter. He was a faithful and loyal servant of God. Gayle and I are very saddened to hear this news.John Rose
Many prays to the Burgman Family. May the peace of GOD cover and keep you all. Kenneth & Retha Bogier(Family)
OUR THOUGHTS A and Prayers goes out to the Burgman FMily. May the Love and Peace of God sustain you in yog hor of sorrow. Floyd crawford Valdosta GA.
My friend and golf buddy a real true friend. Will miss you dearly. My Condolences to the family may God give you strength doing these difficult times.(MAC).
We offer our deep sympathy and condolences to his wife and family. Jim and Lynn Bennett
Lewis Burgman was such an honorable man..He was my Brother in Law. Lewis was a gifted scientist, a kind and humorous man who loved his family and cared about others.. I will miss him and will click a blue candle for the Sigmas he loved and will contribute to the endowment... REST IN PEACE, LEW. WE LOVE YOU.🙏🏾🙏🏾
Annette Carter
Annette Carter
SAD NEWS WITH PASSING OF LEWIS. HE WAS A FRIEND AND I PLAYED MANY GOLF ROUNDS WITH HIM. GOD PLESS HIM AND HIS FAMILY DURING THIS TIME OF SORRY. HE WILL BE MISSED BY MANY FRIENDS. TRAVIS JONES.
Sending healing prayers and comfort during this tough time.
Janice Harris Clark
My condolences and prayers goes out to the family. May God give you the strength that you need during this difficult time.
Shirley Doe Sunms
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.
