The world is a quieter place after the passing of Vance S. Burnham (10-4-2006) who, armed with a dry, sharp wit, was able to disarm with laughter.
A veterinary sciences graduate of the University of Maine and a veteran, he went on to become at various points, a science teacher, a tuna fisherman and finally, but not least, a Radiological Engineer and Site Coordinator at Yankee Rowe Atomic in Rowe, MA and the self-appointed CEO of Zoar Research and Development.
His hobbies were unique and varied, ranging from grinding his own lenses to make telescopes to loading his own rounds for the target shooting he enjoyed. He also loved computers, cooking, optics, Amato’s Italian subs, building and flying kites, and generally anything to do with creating or building. He played darts, recreationally and competitively. He hated being late, and he always navigated with his GPS as he drove. A collector of almost anything, he felt “It was better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it.” A steadfast lover of dogs, “Uncle Hotdog” was loved in return for equal parts affection and treats. Not the biggest fan of snow or winter, he was happiest when he was warm and fishing. He loved gardening, until a late-May frost killed all of his hot pepper seedlings. A closet romantic, Vance loved deeply in his own quiet way.
Incomparably unique and graced with his own indefinable style, he once used duct tape as a belt for his three piece suit. Nicknamed “Mr. Wizard” by his co-workers and friends at Yankee, he was able to conjure up anything that might be required at anytime by anyone.
After a long and courageous struggle with cancer, he is now at peace, leaving behind uncountable good memories for those who knew and loved him. He is survived by his wife of twenty-six years, Joan DeGusto, his father, Reuben Burnham of Newburyport, MA, his son and daughter-in-law, Travis and Chika Burnham of Portland, ME, his brother and his sister-in-law, Robert and Jane Burnham, his niece and nephew Jennifer and James Burnham, his grand-niece Astrid Burnham-Alouat, all of Newburyport, MA, his ex-wife, Leslie Spear of Spruce Head Island, ME and many other family members and friends.
