Obituary of Bernard Thomas Burba

With great sadness, we announce the death of our beloved father, Bernard Thomas Burba. Bernie was born August 16, 1932, in Waukegan, Illinois, to Felix and Margaret (Schardt) Burba, and passed away in Tucson on November 18, 2023. He was predeceased by his wives, Carole (Vaclavek), with whom he raised his family, and Carole Draper (Reppa); his parents, and five siblings. Bernie is survived by his five children: Peggy (Mike) Hazard, Laura (Mike) Hagerty, Thomas (Maggie), David (Alice), and Susan Latin; twelve grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren. He is deeply mourned by them, his extended family, and a wide circle of dear friends.

A natural-born salesman, as a child Bernie sold newspapers at Great Lakes Naval Base, where he later enlisted. He served in the Navy from 1951 to 1954 and was an airship mechanic at Naval Air Station Weeksville in North Carolina. He had a long and successful career in the swimming pool and spa industry, in which he was a national leader for decades. In 1972, his family relocated from Illinois to Tucson where he was a partner with Baja Industries.

Bernie enjoyed golf, travel, Wildcat basketball, making turned-wood pens, and summers at his home in Pinetop. His happiest times were with his children and grandchildren, who are his enduring legacy. They adored him and will miss his sense of humor and loving support.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, December 11, 11am at

Our Lady of the Desert Church at the Redemptorist Renewal Center, 7101 W. Picture Rocks Rd.

To honor Bernie’s memory, donations may be made to his favorite charities, Primavera Foundation or St. Jude’s.