Richard "Dick" Burow

Richard "Dick" Burow, age 85 of Midland, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 12, 2024 with his family at his side.  He was born on September 4, 1938 in Titusville, PA to the late Frank and Florence (Wilson) Burow. He grew up in Cheswick, PA with two brothers.  Dick earned his bachelor's degree in chemical engineering from Grove City College in Pennsylvania and his MBA from Central Michigan University.  He moved to Midland in 1960 when he was hired at Dow Corning as a chemical engineer, where he retired after 38 years of service.  He soon met the love of his life, Karen Knapp, who had also recently moved to Midland as a school teacher.  They met in a young adult church group where they made many lifelong friends.

Dick enjoyed camping with his family over the years, especially at Interlochen State Park.  Sailing was a passion of his starting with racing lightning sailboats out of the Bay City Yacht Club and in later years, he sailed their sailboats out of the Elk Rapids Yacht Club. Every year the family has enjoyed a week together in Elk Rapids because of his love for that community.  Dick was very active throughout his life, with his favorite activities being cycling, running, hiking, and downhill skiing.  He traveled all over the world during his years at Dow Corning.  In his retirement he took Karen back to many of his favorite places so they could experience them together.  Dick also enjoyed reading, collecting stamps, and genealogy.  His genealogy research took him to Germany where he took it upon himself to meet many family members who he wouldn't have otherwise met.  He and Karen became close with their German family and have enjoyed many visits with them over the years.

Most of all, Dick will be remembered for how he cared for his family, especially his grandkids, who called him Opa.  He was always in the audience or the stands supporting them in their interests.  He was a great storyteller who could tell stories from many years back with great detail.  His family will greatly miss his love, support, and his stories.

As a member of Aldersgate Church for over 45 years, Dick was actively involved with the church choir, various leadership roles, and numerous Bible study groups. His love of music also led him to be a long time member of Men of Music. Dick also volunteered extensively both with his church and with Habitat for Humanity.

Dick married the former Karen Knapp in Midland on June 9, 1962. Together they spent 61 years together and raised their children, Julie Hintz, Sara (Dean) Bartley, and Tracy (Jason) Merry all of Midland. He was a loving Opa to Emma Hintz,  Tyler Hintz, David Bartley, Jacob Merry, and Ryan Merry. He will also be missed by his siblings, Glenn (Jean) Burow and James (Sue) Burow; sisters-in-law, Kristen (Hugo) Burzlaff and Leslie (Gary) Kirchoff; along with many nieces, nephews, and friends. Dick was preceded in death by his parents.

There will be a celebration of Dick's life held at 11 am on Saturday, February 3, 2024 at Aldersgate Church with Rev. Michael T. Sawicki officiating. Visitation will be from 9 am until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be offered to Aldersgate Church or the Toni and Trish House. Personal messages of condolence may be offered to the family at www.wilson-miller.com.