Eric passed quietly with grace and dignity at the GB Cross Hospital, Clarenville, NL on July 10, 2025.
Eric was born in Safe Harbour, NL and was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, educator, and naturalist. His life was one of service, curiosity, and deep love for his family and the natural world. He was predeceased by his beloved parents, William and Margaret Burry; his sister, Daphne; and his brothers, Paul and his twin, Bill. He leaves behind his devoted wife of 58 years, Glenda; his children, Susanne, Darren (Marsha), and Daniel; and his cherished grandsons, Maxwell David and Jacob Owen, sons of Daniel. He is also lovingly remembered by his brothers, Bruce (Sharon) and Rob (Valerie); his sisters, Audrey (Tony) and Joan; his brothers-in-law, Boyd (Valery), David (Linda), Ted (Sharon), and Bradley (Angela); and his sisters-in-law, Margaret (Paul) and Margaret (Bill). Eric’s memory will live on in the hearts of a large circle of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. His niece, Victoria, held a very special place in his heart, and he remained true to the promise he made to his brother Paul—to always be there for her.
A Life of Learning and Leadership
Eric began teaching in Lumsden, NL at just 16 years old. He worked his way through university, earning a BA (Ed) and later a Master’s in Curriculum Development. He and Glenda, both passionate educators, married in 1967 and taught high school together. He served as principal of an elementary school and vice principal of Gander Academy. His career was deeply intertwined with the Newfoundland and Labrador Teachers’ Association (NLTA), where he later became a Curriculum Development Officer in 1986. He traveled extensively across the province, including the Great Land —often leaving behind a silk tie or two along the way!
After retiring from the NLTA in 1996, Eric brought Canadian curriculum to schools in Thailand and China. Upon returning, he was appointed Assistant Deputy Minister of Education with the Liberal government.
A Gentle Soul and Steward of Nature
Eric and his brother Bill were avid salmon fishermen, spending 50 summers on the Gander River. True to his conservationist heart, Eric always released his catch to preserve the species.
He was a naturalist who knew every bird song, flight path, and nesting pattern. He passed this love of nature to his children and grandchildren—especially the “O Canada bird,” robins, blue jays, and chickadees.
In retirement, Eric and Glenda built a beautiful home in Bloomfield, where many cups of coffee and glasses of scotch were shared on “Eric’s Lookout.”
With Gratitude
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the incredible staff of the chemo unit. Deepest appreciation to Dr. Stockwell, Dr. Pardy, Dr. Paul, Dr. Mitchelmore, and Dr. Reese for their care and compassion.
Special thanks to Craig and Lori for their unwavering support—and for the hammer, nails, and wood for the fire pit.
A family and friends celebration of Eric’s life will be held at a later date in the family’s garden in Bloomfield.
Flowers are gratefully accepted at this time to Eric’s home in Bloomfield.
Poem Close to His Heart
(By Christina Rossetti)
Who has seen the wind?
Neither I nor You
But when the leaves hang trembling
The wind is passing through.
Who has seen the wind?
Neither you nor I
But when the trees bow down their heads
The wind is passing by.
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