Obituary of John BURLINGTON

April 14, 1954 - North Bay, Ontario  
June 7, 2020 – Edmonton, Alberta 

John Burlington, of Calgary, AB, beloved husband of Eileen Burlington (nee O’Reilly), and extremely proud Dad of Lorne (Tabitha), Michael (Powin) and Maggie, passed away on Sunday, June 7, 2020 at the age of 66 years.

John was predeceased by his parents, Lorne and Mary, and his brother, Michael.

John was born in North Bay, Ontario, Canada on April 14th, 1954. He graduated from University of Western Ontario with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and a Master’s of Science in Geology.

On June 27, 1980, John married Eileen in London, Ontario. Like any party thrown by John and Eileen, it was raucous and is fondly remembered by attendees even 40 years later.

Outside of Eileen, his children, and rocks, John was a history buff and loved to travel. His travels took him to the most beautiful parts of our world, experiencing the culture, the drink, the food, and the hospitality. Some of his most loved trips include Africa, Italy, Spain, Ireland and Newfoundland. If you ever asked him about these trips, he could name his favourite meal and his favourite hotel at the drop of a hat. If you were lucky enough to travel with him, you were fortunate enough to have a built-in tour guide. No matter where you went, John had a rich knowledge of the history of the area, and he loved to share that with everyone he travelled with. On some occasions he would correct the tour guides with local facts.

John will be eternally remembered for his sharp mind, his love of science fiction (he didn’t earn the nickname ‘Dr. Sci’ for nothing), his uncompromisable compassion and his delicious home cooking. Whether it be for his homecooked meals, his company, or his advice, John was always ready to lend a hand.

Besides his immediate family, John leaves to mourn his beloved, adopted Newfoundland family (The O’Reillys), including his New York niece and family (Karen, Paul and Dagny), his friend and business partner Nigel, his “partners in crime” Hartley and Blaine, good friend and fellow geologist, Lydia Lobato, the Sudan Family and friends the world over.

His family asks that you take a moment to register as an organ and tissue donor.

Those wishing to send John off may do so on Sunday, June 14, 2020 at the Burlington Residence (100-18th Avenue SE, Calgary, AB T2G 1K8) from 2:00 p.m. onwards

In living memory of John Burlington, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis and Holloway Funeral Homes, Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB T2S 2L5, Telephone: 403-243-8200.