Lawrence Roy Burk

Lawrence Roy Burk, a devoted husband, father, and friend, passed away on October 3, 2024 at the age of 65. Born on November 28, 1958, Lawrence exemplified a life of service and creativity, leaving behind a legacy that will be by all who knew him. Lawrence was a native of Rapid City, SD and resident of Biloxi, MS.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Royal and Sandra Burk; and nephew, Luke Burk.

Lawrence is survived by his wife of 31 years, Theresa Burk; children, Chris Burk (Debbra), Randall Burk, Jason Walker (JuDalyn), Joel Walker, Josh Walker (Rachel), Justin Wright (Rebecca), Erin Wright, Kathy Jungclaus, Michelle Jungclaus, and Shauna Jungclaus; siblings, John Burk (Martha), Steve Burk, Roger Burk (Cindy), and Mike Burk (Kim); grandchildren, Allison, Riley, and Anna Burk, Enrique and Jasper Walker, Mason Pierce, Landon and Haven Walker, Athena Gunnarsson, Lydia, Even, and Owen Wright; nephews, Tanner, Cody, Austin, and Dylan Burk; and nieces, Kimberly Burk and Laura West.

Lawrence was a proud veteran of the United States Navy, where he over two decades of his life to serving his. His military career boasted six major deployments and two minor deployments, taking him to 18 countries across five continents. He served valiantly during three wars and was awarded numerous accolades for his service, including the Defense Meritorious Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, and Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal (x2), Presidential Unit Citation (x6), Navy Meritorious Commendation (x2), Navy "E" Ribbon, Navy Good Conduct Medal (x4), Navy Expeditionary Medal, National Defense Service Medal (x2), Southwest Asia Service Medal (x2), Navy Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (x6), Philippine Presidential Unit Citation, Kuwait Liberation Medal (Saudi Arabia), Kuwait Liberation Medal (Kuwait), and Navy Expert Rifleman Medal, reflecting his unwavering commitment and exceptional contributions to the Navy.

In addition to his military accomplishments, Lawrence enjoyed a successful career in the civilian sector as a comptroller and working in the IT department for ICCI in Gulfport, MS. His passion for writing shone through in his creative endeavors, with six published books to his name, showcasing his talent and dedication to the art of storytelling. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree in creative writing after attending Harrison Central High School, which laid the foundation for his literary pursuits.

Lawrence was a man of many interests and hobbies. He loved to express himself through music, often seen singing, songwriting, and playing his guitar. An avid golfer, he enjoyed spending his leisurely hours on the green. Lawrence also had a zest for sports, finding joy in watching baseball, as well as cheering for the New Orleans Saints and engaging with the mysteries of NCIS.

His contributions and achievements in both his personal and professional life will be profoundly missed. Lawrence’s spirit lives on through the countless memories shared with those who were fortunate enough to know him. He is remembered not only for his numerous accomplishments but for his kind heart and adventurous spirit.

The family would like to thank the VA Hospital for their amazing nurses and care, Debby from Deaconess Hospice for caring for Larry over 2 years (truly amazing nurse)., and to Riemann Family Funeral Home for support and making this process easier. 

Please visit Larry's website to read about him, his 6 books, and hundreds of poems online. burk-ms.com

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Gulfport is honored to serve the Burk family.