Russell D Burchard

Russell D. Burchard, a longtime community college professor, mentor, friend and beloved husband and brother, passed away on Feb. 21. He was 58 years old. Russ was born in 1964 to Duncan and Elinor Burchard in Maryland. Because Duncan was a career National Park ranger, the family lived in various national parks. Both Russ and his older brother developed a lifelong love for the outdoors. As a child, Russ explored forests, canyons and mesas, built forts and rode bikes and then spent much of his later years in the mountains, rivers and deserts of the West. His love for the outdoors brought him another love; he met his longtime partner and future wife, Fran, while both were serving as seasonal rangers for the National Park Service. Besides his appreciation of the natural environment, Russ loved books and education, which eventually led him to a career as a professor at Linn-Benton Community College. He first taught a GED preparation course, where he helped hundreds of young adults to not only get ready for their GED exams but also to thrive in other areas of their lives. He touched many people’s lives through his work, understanding and gentle approach to the needs of others. Numerous students expressed profuse thanks to him throughout his career and told him stories of the immense and positive difference he had made in their lives. Because of his strong commitment to his students and work, he earned the college’s 2006 Pastega Excellence Award, a prestigious honor that recognizes faculty and staff members for their outstanding contributions to the college. In addition to teaching, Russ was active as an involved member of the faculty. After course changes, he wasn’t able to continue his passion of teaching GED students and then began teaching mathematics courses at the college. He retired from his work there in 2022. Away from work, Russ continued to enjoy traveling and exploring the outdoors in Oregon and Utah and also enjoyed motorcycles. He was an avid reader and lifelong learner, with interest in a wide range of subjects, and always retained a deep curiosity about the world around him. Russ is survived by his wife, Fran of Albany; his brother, Ashby of Montana; his Aunt Polly of Virginia; and numerous sisters-in-law; cousins and nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents. Family and friends are invited to his Memorial Service, 1:00 pm, Thursday, March 2, 2023 at McHenry Funeral home Chapel, 206 NW 5th Street, Corvallis. Please check back for information regarding an additional remembrance of Russ Please share your thoughts and memories for the family at www.mchenryfuneralhome.com.

Tributes

Russell D Burchard

June 6, 1964 - February 21, 2023