Food drive founder Edgar Burton dies

Edgar Burton, a leader in organizing an annual food drive in the city, passed away July 9 at the Sudbury Regional Hospital at the age of 56. Burton retired in 2009 after working 36 years in Vale’s divisional shops, his obituary said.

“Edgar was a kind, generous and compassionate man who made a remarkable difference through his efforts to feed those in need in our community,” John Pollesel, vice-president, production services and support (Canada/UK) and general manager, Ontario operations, said.

“He will be greatly missed by his many friends and colleagues at our Sudbury operations.”

Burton was the founder of the Business Employees Food Drive at Vale and ran it for 22 years, Dan Xilon, Sudbury Food Bank administrator, said. He began by contacting his fellow employees at the former Inco, and then branched out to involve more businesses each year. He organized more than 280 businesses, employees and unions, and 24 schools in his last food drive effort in December 2009.

“He spearheaded the collection of 50 tonnes of food for us, out of 312 tonnes collected last year. His efforts were a major contribution to us,” Xilon said. “This is despite the economy. He just worked harder.”

Xilon noted that, even though Burton was diagnosed with cancer in April, and was sick, he still came in and helped to prepare for the next food drive — his 23rd.

As a result, the Sudbury Food Bank will be renaming the 2010 Christmas Campaign the Edgar Burton Christmas Food Drive, Xilon said. The Kids Helping Kids program, an elementary school food collection program which Burton began last year, will continue as part of the overall charity effort.

“He worked countless hours for us,” Xilon said. “He never seemed to tire. He challenged everyone to do something for somebody.”

Burton is survived by his wife, Sharon, his children, Lynn, Christine and Jennifer, and grandchildren Lyndsey, Nickolas, Liberty and Noah. He is predeceased by his son, Steven, and his parents James and Fedora.

Donations to the Sudbury Food Bank’s Kids Helping Kids program, are welcomed in lieu of flowers at the Lougheed Funeral Home at 252 Regent St., where Burton is resting.

“His family have arranged for an army truck to be parked outside the funeral home Tuesday and volunteers will be there to collect non-perishable food items for us,” Xilon, said. “Edgar, even in his final resting, still wanted something done for the needy.”

Friends may call between 2-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m., July 13. His funeral takes place at Christ the King Church, 30 Beech St., July 14, at 10 a.m.

Donations or messages of condolences are available online at www.lougheedfuneralhomes.com. Cremation will be at Park Lawn Crematorium.