On February 21, the world lost Jim Burden, 95, lifetime resident of Lincoln.
Jim was a positive thinking, intellectually curious person, who loved to help his family, customers and friends have a better more enjoyable experience in life. He was a friend to everyone.
Jim served in the Navy during WW ll in electronics systems. He got a degree in electrical engineering and joined his father BC and brother Paul in Burden Sales Company. During the war he married LaVawn Block, they raised four children. He lost LaVawn in 2003. He was remarried to Dixie Proctor till her death in 2010.
His hobbies of family hunting, fishing, boating and camping, pursued since the late 1930s lead to his creation of the Surplus Center discount everything retail store, and marina. Thousands of Nebraskans obtained their leisure, sports and work supplies from the Burden family store, before there was a WalMart or Kmart to serve these needs. His hardwork and imagination made the improbable possible for many people.
Jim loved to teach his Redeemer Lutheran Sunday school class, traveled, played golf with friends and family everywhere he could. Jim was a member of the West O Street Optimist Club and longtime member of the Hillcrest Country Club.
Family members include his sons Jim Burden Jr. and Steve Burden, of Lincoln; daughters Katherine Burden, of Seattle, WA and Patricia L. Burden (Larry W. Caldwell), of Tell City, IN; grandchildren Eric, Korey, Josh and Beth Burden; great-granddaughter Kamiela Rosemary Burden and 3 additional great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by his parents, brother Paul, and nephew Brad.
Memorial service: 11:00 a.m. Thursday (3-7-19) Roper and Sons Chapel, 4300 O Street. No visitation/cremation.
Memorials to the Make A Wish Foundation.