Ernest (Ernie) Burdge

Ernest Leroy Burdge
Jan 5 1951 - Mar 30 2025

Ernest (Ernie) Burdge passed away on March 30 after a prolonged illness. He died peacefully at home, surrounded by his family.

Ernie held a Ph.D. in plant biochemistry and spent his career as a research scientist at Rohm and Haas Company. He was an excellent researcher and had the ability to ask the one great question that got to the root of the problem.

Music was an important part of Ernie’s life. He loved attending concerts and music in a variety of genres. He played acoustic and electric guitar, especially focussing on blues guitar. He ensured that his children received early musical training and they all have grown to share his love for music.

Ernie loved nature, especially plants and birds. He was passionate about spring ephemeral wildflowers and shared his passion with those around him. Walking in the woods year round, but especially in the spring, was a joy to him.

Ernie had a great sense of humor and loved to make people laugh. He enjoyed a good meal, especially with family and friends, and delighted in chocolate chip cookies. He enjoyed reading novels, and discussing them with friends.

Family was important to Ernie. He is survived by his wife, Lori Spangler, his 3 children, Rachel Rice (Nate), Jesse Burdge (Elizabeth) and Jordan Burdge, and his 2 stepsons Scott Kinney (Carly) and Michael Kinney (Yolanda Scarpati). His joy in life was his grandchildren, Taylor and Jackson Burdge, Jett Rice and Hazel Kinney. Their photos, visits, and FaceTime calls always brought a smile to his face. He is also survived by his 3 siblings, Geoff Burdge (Barbara), Stephanie Diamond, and Melissa Treves (Jeff), and nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held on April 26 2025 at 4:30 pm at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Raleigh, 3313 Wade Ave, Raleigh NC 27607.

If you choose, please make a donation to an arts or environmental non-profit of your choice in memory of Ernie.