William Richard Burks

Our dad passed away peacefully in his sleep—just how he intended. These are his own words about his life:

"I grew up in Jerome, Idaho, with my parents, William Elliott Burks and Janice Lois Freeman; my brother Mike Burks; and my sister Jacqui Naccarato. We lived on an old farmstead, and I could tell you story after story as my memory holds.

"After high school, I moved to Sun Valley, where I spent the rest of my days. I started working for Sun Valley Company in 1964 as ski patrol. I worked 40 winters at Bald Mountain, and during the summer months, I drove trucks cross-country. I saw all 48 contiguous states and Canada, driving over 3 million miles. I was also a firefighter for 15 years for the Ketchum Fire Department. Those were the days!

"I raised two boys, Will and Beau Burks, and my daughter, Delaney Willey. I am very proud of them—along with my five grandchildren: Elliott, Isaac, Billy, Jessie, and Annie Burks, all of Hailey, Idaho.

"I worked most of my life and made sure to leave room for play. I enjoyed poker at the casino, fishing, hunting, going on motorcycle rides, and later in life, spending time with my grandkids. I’ve enjoyed my life. Any man that makes a living doing what he likes is lucky, and I am that!

"Over the years, a lot of my relatives and pals have gone to the 'great beyond.' I guess I'm just hanging on—I don't know why I hate to go; I know it's better up there. Time goes by, or so I'm told, so enjoy the memories and times we had, till we meet again—Love, Dad."

A celebration of life is being planned, and details will be shared when available. We look forward to gathering with all who wish to honor him.