WILMINGTON — Dr. Kenneth F. Burda, 85, of Wilmington, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on October 17, 2025.
A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Ken will be remembered for his steadfast dedication to family, his lifelong commitment to education, and his thoughtful words of wisdom that touched all who knew him.
Born on June 27, 1940, in Duquesne, Pennsylvania, Ken was the beloved son of Frank and Helen Burda.
He grew up in a close-knit family alongside his sister, Shelby Anderson, and carried those strong family values throughout his life. In 1954, at just 14 years old, Ken met the love of his life, Susan, who was 12 at the time. Their youthful friendship blossomed into a deep and enduring love that lasted more than 70 years.
Ken graduated from Duquesne High School before earning his Bachelor of Science degree from California State College, Pennsylvania. His passion for learning never wavered. He went on to earn a Master’s Degree in education from Central Washington State College and later achieved his Doctorate in Education from the University of Pennsylvania.
His career in higher education was both distinguished and deeply impactful. For 19 years, he served at the State University of New York at New Paltz, where he held the positions of Vice President for Student Affairs and later Vice President for Institutional Advancement. Known for his integrity, vision, and dedication to students, Ken left a lasting mark on the university community.
After retiring from SUNY New Paltz in 1998, Ken and Susan embarked on a new chapter, moving to Wilmington, North Carolina, in 1999. Drawn by the area’s beautiful golf courses, beaches, and warm weather, they embraced their coastal lifestyle and built a loving home surrounded by friends and family.
Ken took tremendous pride in his children and even greater joy in his grandchildren, whose achievements and laughter brought him endless happiness. His legacy will live on through their lives, guided by the lessons of love, learning, and laughter he instilled in them.
Ken was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Helen Burda.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 61 years, Susan Fulmer Burda; his sister, Shelby Anderson of McKeesport, Pennsylvania; his sons, Cullen (Winn) Burda of Berkely, CA, Ruarri (Melissa) Burda of East Vale, CA, daughter Bryna (Jamison) Fair of Hampstead, NC; and seven beloved grandchildren—Harper and Oliver Burda, Teagan and Brooklyn Burda, and Avery, Irelyn, and Baylor Fair.
Ken’s family will remember him for his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering love. His memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.
Arrangements are pending and will be announced at a later date.
