March 2, 1952 – October 16, 2023
NAPLES, FL — Harold J. Burdess, 71, of Bonita Springs, FL, passed away Monday, October 16, 2023, at Avow Hospice House in Naples, FL, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was formerly from Peoria, IL.
He was born March 2, 1952, in Peoria, IL, to Robert E. and Twila (Virden) Burdess Sr. They preceded him in death along with his older brother Robert E. Burdess Jr.
Harold is survived by his wife Martha (Garrett) Burdess of Bonita Springs and brother Mark Burdess of Peoria, (sister in law) Margaret Burdess of Pekin, Il, daughters Sara Verhey of Glenview, IL, Hayley (Ryan) Neverve of Kansas City, MO, son Joe ( Whitney ) Burdess of Midlothian, VA, seven grandchildren, several nieces and nephews as well as a multitude of friends.
Harold worked for many years at WMBD Radio in Peoria before joining Burdess & Associates Inc. as CEO, where he later retired. He had a passion for making people smile and knew no strangers. His charm and wit touched the lives of all. “Hug your family and friends….Grins”
A private family celebration will take place at a later date on Bonita Beach.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Harold’s name to The Peoria Friendship House, 800 NE Madison Ave., Peoria, IL 61603.
To express condolences online, visit www.NaplesFuneralHome.com
Jamie Baltrotsky (Mittal)
January 24, 2024, 3:14 am
Our hearts are with you Martha, and we are praying for strength and courage for you and your family as you navigate the next few days and months. I have fond memories of seeing you and Harold when I was a child. He was always so kind and interested in hearing about my little life!
BARBARA FORCE
January 24, 2024, 3:15 am
PRAYERS FOR MARTHA AND THE BURDESS FAMILY. HAROLD HAD A JOKE FOR US EVERYTIME HE CAME INTO THE INSURANCE OFFICE OF RON MURPHY… RIP HAROLD
BARBARA FORCE
Robert Ferlmann
January 24, 2024, 3:15 am
Harold, was one of those guys that people were drawn to. He was so much fun to be around and always made you feel better. While easy going, he was successful and competitive. I really enjoyed the time we played a lot of tennis together. I have many fond memories of Harold and send my prayers to Martha and the family.
Vicki Sparks
January 24, 2024, 3:15 am
My thoughts are with the family and friends that Harold loved. Such a loss for all he came in contact with. His kindness will always be remembered.
Melissa Fox
January 24, 2024, 3:15 am
H was one of my best buddies! He was a mentor, a friend, a confidant, a counselor & just like a big brother!! I will always remember our many talks about how to handle life situations, sales & health! I will miss you & see you on the other side my friend!! Grins & God Speed!!
Amy Utech
January 24, 2024, 3:16 am
I’m so sad to see of Harold’s passing. I used to have great talks with him when he was in peoria at my restaurant. Thoughts and prayers to his family!
Marcellus & Brooke Sommerville
January 24, 2024, 3:16 am
H……words will never explain what you meant to us. You were very instrumental in shaping who we have become. You were always telling us to stay true to who we are, do what we love, always make memories, but most importantly SMILE. One of your favorite things to say was that one of the biggest mistakes people make in life is thinking that you have time. We are heartbroken that you are gone, and we will always peak at our phones anticipating your next text with a hilarious joke. One thing for certain and two things for sure…..you’re truly going to be missed, and its not good bye its see you later!
PS- Thanks for the Big Heart we will cherish it for the rest of our lives.
SMILING through the tears! Signing off GRINS from Marcellus and Brooke
Button & Tucked
January 24, 2024, 3:16 am
If he wasn’t bragging about his family or all of their wild life experiences, he was finding the next meme.
A true fighter to the very end….
I have been talking to you. I know you know. ❤️