John Abraham Burbridge, 85, died on Monday, April 21, 2025, at CHI Community Memorial Hospital in Missouri Valley. He was born on May 18, 1939, in Council Bluffs, to Carl V. and Ruby A. (Leonard) Burbridge. He grew up in the Logan area where he attended school, graduating in 1957. John went on to Creighton for a year before transferring to Omaha University where he graduated with a business degree in 1962. On Sept. 22, 1962, John was united in marriage to Charlotte Bennett in Omaha, Neb. John spent his life farming outside of Logan. He purchased his first tractor while in 8th grade with a trade of his Schwinn bike and three $100 bills. He fed many cattle and raised cow/calf pairs and hogs. In the 1970’s John started helping at the office filing taxes during the winter months. He also sold real estate and later drove bus for the Logan Magnolia Schools.
John was a member of the United Methodist Church. He was a dedicated member of the community and a participant in various organizations. John sat on the Farm Bureau Board, the REC Board and the Harrison County Zoning Commission. His involvement in the Masonic Lodge showed his dedication to the principles of brotherhood and charity, further exemplifying the kindness he exhibited in all aspects of life. John was a familiar face at the county fair, embodying the spirit of community and fellowship. His joy for the season was exemplified by his beloved role as the town Santa Claus, bringing smiles to children and adults alike.
John was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife Charlotte of Logan; children, Denise and her husband Dean Willadsen of Smithville, Mo., Tom Burbridge and his wife Stacie of Council Bluffs and Linda and her husband Larry Hennessy of Logan; grandchildren, Brittni Willadsen, Cheyenne and her husband Colby Cluck, Bennett Hennessy and Claire Hennessy; great-granddaughter, Faithlynn Cluck; siblings, Jane and her husband Ron Stockfleth of Hooper, Neb., Mary and her husband Dennis Koenig of Dow City and Ann and her husband Rick Buchmann of Sugarland, Texas; and many other cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.
A funeral service was held on Friday, April 25, 2025, at United Methodist Church in Logan. Pastor Nikki Ahart presided over the service. The musicians were Lori Cohrs and Garrett Anderson. The musical selections were “How Great Thou Art”, “The Old Rugged Cross” and “In The Garden”. The pallbearers were Jim Brix, Jake Carlson, Layne Clark, Kevin Gunderson, Jason Lundergard and Luke Williams. John’s final resting place is at Grange Cemetery.
Fouts Funeral Home in Woodbine was in charge of arrangements. www.foutsfuneralhome.com
