William Burwell

William (Bill) Burwell, of Belton, Missouri, passed away June 6th, 2019 in Research Hospital. He was born in Kansas City, Missouri on August 28, 1945 to Ann Todd (Swaney) Burwell and Walter Burwell.  He was the oldest of their six children.  Bill was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, James (Jim) Lee Burwell and Robert (Bob) Todd Burwell.

Bill was an Eagle Scout and a member of the tribe of Mic-O-Say known as ”Four Flaming Stars”. He was a voracious reader throughout his life and was happiest with a book in his hands. His favorites were mysteries.  He delighted in teasing his nieces and nephews, while at the same time being very supportive of them and helping them reach their goals.

Bill graduated from North Kansas City High School in 1963 and began classes at the Metropolitan Community College where he earned an Associate Degree. He  entered the Army in 1967. He served in Viet Nam and earned several medals and commendations.  Receiving an Honorable Discharge in 1973; he returned to college to complete his Bachelor’s and earn his Master’s Degree.  Following earning his Master’s from Georgia State University in Atlanta, Georgia, Bill began working for Burroughs, now Unisys, where he worked as a software engineer for over 30 years.  After Bill retired, he moved back to Kansas City.

Bill is survived by his brother John Burwell and wife Linda, sisters Mary Ann Burwell Curtis and husband Bob, Nancy Longhibler and husband Calvin, and Jim’s widow, Elaine Burwell. He also leaves behind seven nieces and nephews and 12 great nieces and nephews. He was the best brother, uncle and great-uncle anyone could ever ask for and we were blessed to have had him in our lives.  Bill shared his sense of humor throughout his life which led to many smiles and laughs in response. He will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved him. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to a library of the donor’s choice.  A memorial service in celebration of Bill’s life will be held on July 15th at 10:00 a.m. at Terrace Park Cemetery in Kansas City, Missouri.