Orville Franklin Bursler Jr., proud Navy veteran

Orville Franklin Bursler Jr., 78, of Lewes passed away peacefully to be with our Lord Wednesday, Oct. 3, 2018.  He was born Aug. 24, 1940, in Wilmington as the son of Orville F. Bursler Sr. and Elizabeth Seay Bursler.  

He is predeceased by his parents; his brother, Andrew Bursler; and his sister, Patricia Pratt.  He is survived by his wife, Mary Ann Wicks Bursler; sons Thomas Bursler (Kim), David Bursler (Angela) and Joseph Bursler (Lucy); and his brother, James Bursler (Pam).  He is also survived by seven grandchildren, Jessica Bursler, Matthew Bursler, Kyle Moskowitz, Ian Shalk, Joseph Bursler Jr., Caroline Bursler and Andrew Bursler.

A 1958 graduate of William Penn High School, Orv was a loyal Colonial and would often sing the William Penn Fight Song.  Despite being offered a full scholarship to the University of Delaware, Orv joined the U.S. Navy in August 1958, serving his country proudly for 10 years and achieving the rank of Radioman First Class. He enjoyed recounting his time serving aboard the U.S.S. San Marcos, which was his favorite ship.

After leaving the Navy, his greatest source of pride and happiness was his family. His greatest love was for his wife of 57 years, Mary, with whom he shared this deep love of family. He loved dogs, and his family over the years included two St. Bernards, a Labrador, a Bichon and a Yorkshire Terrier. He cherished his father-in-law, Jesse A Wicks, who was his mentor and confidant. He was extremely proud of his sons and his grandchildren, and will be remembered as a doting grandfather and father.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday, Oct. 9, at St Peter the Apostle Church, 35 E. Fifth St., New Castle at 11 a.m., with a viewing from 10 to 11 a.m. Interment will follow at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Bear.  To send condolences, visit: www.dohertyfh.com 302 999 8277