1956
2016
Mike Burgner
Being a Burgner growing up was a lot like others have done. They tend to not focus on the long goal, but to live more for the moment and go the direction the winds blow them. Mike fit this description for most of his life. Throughout his life he had a wide range of professions. During his 45 years of working, he worked as a Truck Driver, in Textile, in Glass with Don Campbell, his greatest confidant and best friend. He did Boat Lift Repair, he created Specialty products that many of you may have had in your homes and never realized that it was one of those creations. He made lifelong friends along the way, including Ron Howell, one of Mike's closest friends for over 53 years. For the last 15 years, he worked with Shawn Casey here in Orlando where many of you first met him.
In everything he did throughout his life, he learned from each experience. Mike was always a great "thinker'', being able to look at something and not only seeing it for what it was, but for what it should and could be. For years, the most common answer to any question in Orlando was "Ask Mike".
Some of you may know that Mike's Grandfather was a Baptist Preacher. One of the traits he passed down to the Burgner’s was the ability to talk to anyone, that nobody was a stranger. They always get told that they can never go anywhere without stopping and talking to someone. Those of you who knew Mike well, have had the opportunity to see this trait in him and many were also there to enjoy the times when the desire, almost need to talk to someone provided some very good entertainment.
Mike was a professional recreational fisherman. He spent hours honing his skills watching Florida Sport Fishing and researching fishing gear online. Mike never had a bad day fishing. Many of you shared in his fishing adventures. His daughter Marina was his favorite "fishing buddy''.
Over the years, Mike's sense of caring and love grew beyond compare. The only love stronger than the love he had for his friends was the love he had for Karen and his children. His children were his pride as they should be for all of us. Karen opened a new direction in Mike's life which led him to a point where he was happy and peaceful. His favorite place was at home with Karen.
Mike is survived by Mother Peggy, Sister Kitty, Brothers Roger and Rex; Sons Joshua, Eric, & Michael Jr. and his daughter Marina.
Each of us has a story about Mike and we will all remember him in different ways but all will agree that Mike was in the good part of all of our lives and will always remain in our hearts. He was one of a kind.
A Note from Karen
Mike and I met 9 years ago through Match.com. He called me the Sunday after Thanksgiving and said "we're meeting today and I'm going to kiss you." I told him I would meet him but he certainly wasn't going to kiss me. Well, we met and when he walked me to the car, he did indeed kiss me. The rest is history. We were together every day since then. There is no one like him for sure. We had the privilege to travel as much as our schedules allowed. We visited Niagara Falls in Canada a year after we met and became engaged. One of our favorite memories was a helicopter ride into the Grand Canyon where we drank champagne when we landed on a ridge. We made several trips to Las Vegas, New Orleans, cruising Bahamas and Punta Cana. Always finding a casino, he loved to gamble. Our last trip was 10 days in Hungary, Austria, and Germany and the memories will be with me forever. Mike was relaxed and we had wonderful adventure with really good friends. Mike and I bought our house in 2012 so we could move my mother in for the end stages of her life. She's outlived Mike. This house was his pride and joy and our back yard was his relaxation spot and our favorite place to spend time together. I guess it's appropriate that he died doing what he loved most, grilling under his pergola. He's at peace now and resting. I cannot thank everyone enough for the outpouring of love and prayers during this difficult time. It means more to me than I can express and I will be forever grateful for all the kind words.
I love you Michael
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
December 21, 2017
Judy Adams
November 30, 2016
Paul Southworth
I am so sorry for the Burgner's family loss. I did not know Mike well but he was a great man. You are in my thoughts and prayers with his passing.
November 29, 2016
Judy Adams
So sorry for the family's loss. Mike will be greatly missed by all.
November 29, 2016
Michael Jones
We are deeply saddened to hear about Mike's passing. Our thoughts & prayers are with your family. Mike was a great man & we always enjoyed his visits at our shop. He was part of the family here. He has now heard the words we long to hear "Well done my dear & faithful servant" you will always be with us.
November 28, 2016
Mary Ward
Karen,
I left a message already but just had opportunity to read about your Mike. Some of us are lucky to have
met the incredible love of our life. I was and can tell you were too. I feel like I know him. I know you loved him dearly and that love will live on in your heart. Great loves never leave they take a new place in our heart. That I can assure you will remain with you forever. RIP Mike
November 28, 2016
Suzanne Crain
Karen and family, Bob and I were so sorry to hear of your loss. We're sending our thoughts and prayers to you during this difficult time. Much Love. Suzanne & Bob Crain
November 28, 2016
Brownies Septic
Our deepest and sincere condolences to Mike's family, friends and everyone at SA Casey during this tough time. Mike will be greatly missed by so many.
All our love and prayers! ~ Brownies Septic & Plumbing ~
November 28, 2016
Kathy Clark
Karen and family, I just want you all to know Mike made me feel like family as soon as I met him. He knew we had been friends a long time so he did his best to show me how much he loved you. He did that 100 times over. Just know he will always be with you and so am I. I love you.
November 28, 2016
Jeanne Winfield
Karen,
I remember the first time you brought Mike out to a Mix & Mingle event for cocktails. After introductions it was like he had always been a friend and a part of the group. He was such a perfect match for you.My heart goes out to you, his family and all those who loved him. You experienced so many things in your time together and you have many wonderful memories to reflect on and smile while remembering a cherished moment or something funny that happened or was said. Sending love, strength and peace to you for the days ahead.
November 27, 2016
Mary Ward
Karen and family,
I was so saddened to hear of your loss. May you find comfort in the days ahead and may your memories give you peace and strength. Karen, don't hesitate to reach out if you need anything
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