Ted J. Burch went to sleep and joined Jesus on Sunday, Aug. 3, 2008. He was welcomed home by his father, Wayne A. Burch; mother, Shirley L. Wheeler; grandparents, Lorin and Hazel Burch and Ralph and Mildred Wheeler who have gone before him.

Many cherished memories are held by his wife, Tina, son, Lorin, and daughter, Molly; brother, Wayne (Elaine) Burch of Harbor Springs; sisters Wendy (Greg) Webb of Spring, Texas; and Amy Donnellon of St. Clair Shores; aunts, Janice (Fred) Schmidt of Traverse City and Cindy (Ed) Kullik of Petoskey; nieces, Ashley, Alison and Kendra and several cousins; in-laws, Bruce (Jean) Dixon, brothers-in-law, Harry (Kelly) Dixon and Scott Dixon, all of Petoskey.

Ted was born on Dec. 15, 1964, and graduated from Petoskey High School. He was a hard worker and took pride in his years with Kilwin's, Dunkel Excavating and Victories Casino Resort.

Everyone knew Ted for his contagious smile, compassionate heart and willingness to help anyone in need. He was a self-accomplished "giver." He was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles in Petoskey and Boyne City, a Big Brother to Kyle and on the board of Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Northwestern Michigan, a firefighter, medical first responder and organizer of many benefits for families facing hard times. While at Victories, Ted was instrumental in organizing a multi-truck convoy to help Katrina victims in New Orleans.

Ted was also an avid sportsman who loved four-wheeling, ice fishing, mushrooming and camping. He was a huge NASCAR fan and loved music, cooking, tinkering in his garage and spending time with his family and friends. He was always available when a volunteer was needed at a variety of area organizations or someone needed a great listener.

His legacy and personal challenge to friends and family is to do one good deed for someone in need each and everyday. You will be missed, Ted. Peace be with you, sleep well.

Visitation was held at Stone Funeral Home on Wednesday, Aug. 6. A celebration of Ted's life was held at Harvest Barn Word of Life Church in East Jordan on Thursday Aug. 7. Pastor Kimon Criner officiated.

Memorials may be directed to the Lorin & Molly Burch Education Fund at St. Francis X. Federal Credit Union, 2140 M-119, Petoskey, Michigan 49770 or a kind gesture may be extended to someone special in his honor.

If you wish to share your memories of Ted with friends and family you may do so at: www.stonesfuneralhomeinc.com.