Leon Burch, 83, passed away February 6, 2025, after a long, slow decline from Parkinson’s disease. Born in Riverside, CA, Leon’s lifelong passion for concrete began at age five, making stepping stones for the family business. By 30, he had founded his first company in the Sacramento area. He then pioneered the extruded concrete curbing industry in New England creating his firm, Concrete Crafters. Over his career, he extruded millions of feet of curbing in the greater Connecticut area, working until age 79 when a broken foot forced him into reluctant retirement.
Leon served in the U.S. Army, stationed in Germany during the construction of the Berlin Wall. He was an avid reader with a deep interest in world events, politics, and history. He was also a private pilot, earning his wings in the early 1980s.
He is survived by his wife of 63 years, LaWana Burch; his sons, Larry (Tiffani) and Lance (Pam); his daughter, Lelah (Dan); and seven grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren. The eldest of six children, Leon was often the first to step up when his family needed him. He is survived by three siblings, Archie Burch, Shirlee Burch-Stevens and Virginia Anderson. He is predeceased by two sisters, Paulette Burch and Valencia Butts and his parents, Paul and Ellamae (Metcalf) Burch.
The family would like to express deepest appreciation to the staff at Glendale Nursing Home in Naugatuck for the amazing care they gave Leon.
Family and friends are invited to gather March 22, 2025 from 1 to 3pm at Prospect Memorial Funeral Home, 122 Waterbury Rd., Prospect, CT 06712. A celebration of his life will be from 3 to 4pm. Prospect Memorial/The Palmerie Family Funeral Home is honored to assist and care for Leon's family and invites you to share your condolences at prospectmemorial.com.
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