Richard L. Burden 1944-2021
MACEDONIA — Professor Emeritus Richard L. Burden, 76, 1027 Lancewood Drive, Macedonia, died at 3 p.m. Monday, Feb. 1, 2021, at UH Portage Medical Center, after a lengthy illness.
He was born April 8, 1944, in Cleveland, the son of Edward and Harriette Burden.
Prof. Burden earned his Bachlelor of Arts degree in mathematics and physics from Albion College in 1966; his Master of Science degree in mathematics from Case Institute of Technology in 1968; his Ph.D. in mathematics from Case Western Reserve University in 1971; and his Master of Science degree in computer science from the University of Pittsburgh in 1981. Prof. Burden had a prolific career at Youngstown State University, where he taught for over 36 years, co-founded the computer science program and ultimately became chair of the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science. During his tenure at the University, Prof. Burden co-authored two upper-level mathematics texts, one of which was translated into six languages. Prior to his retirement from YSU, he was awarded several distinguished professorships in teaching and service, the Watson Merit Award and was named a Professor Emeritus upon his retirement. After his retirement from YSU, he moved to online education in the hopes of making a difference to a much broader student audience. He built and taught online courses in mathematics and statistics for Empire State College SUNY for over 10 years. Outside of teaching, Richard’s love for baseball led him to coach Niles Little League and Colt League baseball for over 20 years. He served as the Niles Colt League commissioner for over 25 years. Richard also loved ballroom dance and competed as a pro/am in numerous competitions in and outside of Ohio.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Annette Sedall Burden of Macedonia; his son, Edward of Niles; stepson, Erik “Rock” Logan of Macedonia; and sisters, Sandy Lehman of Florida and Sue Ducharm of West Virginia.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brother.
There will be no calling hours. The family requests that contributions be made, in his name, to the YSU CANASTEMM foundation, that he and his wife started in 2015, https://sites.google.com/site/canastemm/home, or by contacting Mr. Brian Nord, Development Officer, YSU Foundation, 330-941-2211.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of the Area Cremation Group, 500 E. Exchange St., Akron, OH 44304, 330-777-3327.
(special notice)