Harold “Junior” Ronald Burchell, 76, died Monday, Oct. 19, 2009, at his home in Plato.
He was born Feb. 25, 1933, in St. Louis, son of Harold and Carrie Hampton Burchell. He and Cheryl Parnell Gliem were married Dec. 19, 1977, in Georgia.
He joined the Army on Dec. 17, 1953 and served until Dec. 15, 1955, as a helicopter repairman. He then served eight years in the Army Reserves. He worked in the space program as a safety engineer for 15 years before retiring to the Ozarks.
He enjoyed people and joking. He was known by friends as Junior or Bullets.
He was a member of the Lions Club of Roby, where he worked with local schools to help with hearing problems. He worked at different church activities while his health permitted. While living in Sesser, Ill., he was involved with the conservation department, teaching safe boating and hunting.
He lived in the Ozarks since 1994 with his wife and stepdaughter, Sharon Gliem.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Eugene Burchell.
Survivors include his wife, Cheryl; a stepdaughter, Sharon; a brother, Ralph Burchell of West Frankfurt, Ill.; a special friend, Ken Roxberry; and many other relatives and pets.
Cremation was under the direction of Evans Funeral Home. No services are planned at this time.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.evansfh.com.
