Robert Charles Burmark's Obituary
Robert (Bob) Burmark, 78 years old, went to be with Jesus on November 3, 2023 with only his wife at his bedside, as they both tested positive for Covid. He had been battling cancer for the past nine years. Dr. Agastya and the staff at Northwest Medical Specialties were wonderful to help both Bob and Marilyn through these rough years. He is survived by his loving wife Marilyn Burmark, sister Beverly Burmark, and various nieces and nephews.
Bob was predeceased by his parents J. Norman and Margaret Burmark, his sister Sharon (Greg) Koch, and cousin/best friend Loren Belsvik.
Bob was born and raised in Tacoma, and graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1963. He graduated from the University of Washington with a degree in Chemical Engineering, and later attained his Professional Engineers license. Bob started his career at Reichhold Chemical Company in Tacoma doing Research and Development for 10 years. He moved into the design of chemical plants, which he loved, giving him an opportunity to travel to the Philippines, Japan, India, Indonesia and various other plants around the United States. In Indonesia he led the design of a new chemical plant from the ground up. He then went to work for the Washington State Department of Ecology in hazardous waste reduction and recycling, rounding out his professional career in the Ecology Air Quality program.
Bob and Marilyn were married at Life Center First Assembly of God on May 18th, and settled in Fircrest. They built a home at Dash Point. Each year they would spend a couple weeks traveling and seeing new places, with Hawaii especially favored. They recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.
All who had the privilege of knowing Bob knew he was a kind and gentle man, never complaining, always sharing his joy and laughter. His life was filled with love for his wife Marilyn and spending time with friends and family. He loved being around the water, and made several trips to Alaska deep-sea fishing with his buddies (and Dramamine).
A memorial celebration of his life will be at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the American Cancer Society, or your charity of choice.
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