Obituary of Thomas John Burwell

BURWELL - Thomas John (Tom) passed away suddenly at home on January 14, 2018 at the age of 75. He is survived by his loving wife Betty of 51 years, his son Shayne (Shalene) Burwell, their daughters Maclaren and Ridley, son Patrick Burwell and daughter Susan Hall and her son Gavin. He is predeceased by his parents Robert and Marjorie Burwell, his sisters Judy and Jean, and beloved grandson Avery. Tom was born in Saskatoon on November 30th, 1942. He attended McTavish school Northwest of Asquith until 1956, followed by Asquith high school. He was a 4H member for many years and attended national club week. Tom went on to study agriculture at the University of Saskatchewan (class of 1964), where he was active in debating as well as sports (including many hours playing bridge in the MUB) and was senior stick of the College in his graduating year. He worked for the Manitoba Department of Agriculture (where he met Betty) and worked as a 4H specialist before going on to graduate studies at the University of Wisconsin where he received his Master’s degree in Agricultural Economics. Following convocation, he became the feed manager at Federated Coop in Saskatoon before leaving to start his own business in the agricultural supply and fuel business. Throughout his career, he was a proud member of the Saskatchewan Institute of Agrologists. He was an early breeder of Simmental cattle in the 1970s and supported the growth of the breed in Saskatchewan, despite the headaches it caused him. More recently he was involved with Saskatchewan Mustard Development as a board member. His recent time was devoted to serving as a councillor for the R.M. of Lakeland. Tom was a loving and selfless parent who always put his family first. He loved the thrill of finding a good bargain, had a sharp wit, infectious laugh and was keenly interested in politics and current events. His post-retirement career was as a committed supporter and frequent chauffeur to his grandchildren’s sporting endeavors. It was a great source of pride and enjoyment for him. Tom followed in the footsteps of his father and farmed the family farm near Asquith at Eagle Creek. Tom had a deep connection to the family farm and many of our fondest memories were at family gatherings there.