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Donald Ferdinand Burgener was born on Sept. 30, 1935, to Ferdinand and Myrtle Burgener in Powell, Wyoming. He spent his formative years on the farm while attending the Powell public schools, graduating in 1953. After some time, he worked for Aldrich Lumber Company. In February 1957, he married Sonya Sue Robirds and that fall he enrolled in Northwest Community College where he received his associate degree in 1959. They then moved to Billings, Montana, where he received his bachelor’s degree, specializing in math, at Eastern Montana College.
He returned to Powell to work on the farm and raise his family. During his farming years he was active in the community becoming the first farmer to join the Chamber of Commerce and later served as president. He served as a member of the hospital board before assuming the role as president. Don was also a charter member of Powell Elks Lodge.
After 25 years, Don decided to use his college education and became a teacher in El Paso, Texas, where he taught upper level math at Hanks High School. He retired after 19 years of sharing his love and knowledge of math with countless students. During their time in El Paso, Don and Sonya purchased a camper and traveled extensively during the summer months to watch their grandsons play baseball and their granddaughter dance. They also traveled to and enjoyed bluegrass concerts. Both venues provided great entertainment and special time with family.
They then moved to Bradshaw, Nebraska, to be closer to family. During their 16 years in Nebraska, they enjoyed spending time with their children, grandchildren and great- grandchildren and were active supporters of the York College baseball team and the York Dukes and Dukettes.
Don is survived by his wife of 66 years, Sonya, son Paul and Amy Burgener, daughters Jamie and Mark Ohl, and Xann and Russ Linhart, and grandchildren Jeremy and Tessa Burgener, Josh and Karissa Burgener, Jordan Burgener, Leon Linhart, Kirby Linhart and Olivia Linhart, and great-granddaughters Charley and Parker Burgener.
A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for 10 a.m., Monday, Jan. 15, 2024 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in York with the Reverend Father John Sullivan officiating. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, east of York. It was Don’s wish to be cremated. No viewing or visitation. Memorials may be directed to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Metz Mortuary in York is handling arrangements.
