Condolence: So sorry for your loss. Brian, Abbe, Levi, Lois and family. It is nice to see that he had such an influence on so many people as a teacher and a coach. Memories last forever and keep a person with you even after they move on.....take care....a caring friend..Hoppy

Condolence: Bob was a very nice guy. I can't remember him ever uttering an unkind word. I was fortunate to have Bob as a phys Ed teacher and to have him as coach for basketball and soccer. How nice that Bob was honored this year at the Hall of Fame awards dinner with one of his state champion soccer teams. My condolences to the family.

Condolence: My colleagues and I at the Connecticut Historical Society were saddened to learn of Bob's passing. For years Bob was a warm, welcome presence in the CHS library, assisting with genealogical research. we extend our heartfelt condolences to Bob's family.
Richard C. Malley
Head of Research & Collections, CHS

Condolence: Word has reached me here in the Philippines of Coach Burford's passing. I remember him from my junior high school school days when he finally convinced me that I could find the courage to climb that gym rope 20 feet to the ceiling. It was one of my early lessons in reaching beyond what I thought were my limits. He was a knowledgeable and perceptive motivator and always an example of top physical conditioning. I think he'd be pleased to know that, at age 75, I still maintain a a moderate daily regimen of exercise. May he rest in peace.

Condolence: To all the Burford family, my heartfelt condolences on the loss of Grampa. May he rest in peace in the arms of the Lord with those that he loved that predeceased him.

Condolence: When I was in Junior High School, Bob Burford was my gym teacher. I was no athlete and struggled to accomplish tasks that were easy for most kids. I remember Coach Burford as a patient, kind, and encouraging man who took pleasure in my accomplishments.
He was also the coach of the basketball team. I remember that he was a stickler for clean play. Wethersfield players were noted for not engaging in prsonal fouls. He held an ethical standard I have never seen elsewhere.
In the summer, he taught swimming at the Mill Wood Pond. Swimming was the one athletic activity I could do, and I ended up as his assistant.
I left Wethersfield High after 9th grade and never saw Coach Burford again. I went on to a career in health care research, chairing a department in a Research I University. His stamp was on me all the way.
I heard about his death through a network of elderly WHS alumni. That alone shows how a fine teacher is always remembered. His influence goes on and on.

Condolence: Bob was an excellent genealogist who loved to share his knowledge and help others who were working on their family history. He headed a volunteer group who assisted researches here at the Connecticut Historical Society and everyone loved working with him. It was my pleasure to know him. Elizabeth Abbe, CHS Director of Public Outreach

Condolence: I was saddened this morning to read of the passing of Coach Burford. Graduating in 1951 it was my pleasure to have known him. My heartfelt sympathy to his family and friends. James Covey Class of 1951