Dick “Burt” Burtless of Seneca Falls died unexpectedly on Monday, August 29. The Memorial service will be held at 2pm on Saturday, Sept 17th at The First Presbyterian Church of Seneca Falls, with Rev. Leah Ntuala officiating. Light refreshments will be served afterwards in the Social Hall. Interment will be in Spring Brook Cemetery
Burtless, a retired history teacher, was a familiar volunteer presence for Rotary, the Historical Society, Meals on Wheels, the First Presbyterian Church and other organizations.
A complete obituary will be published when it becomes available.
Dick Burtless was a Literacy Volunteer for more than 10 years, and was a past president of the organization. He was a tutor at Five Points prison, helping inmates to improve their reading and writing skills.
He was a volunteer at Women’s Rights National Historical Park and frequently gave talks about the history of the women’s rights movement and Seneca Falls.
A quiet man who always responded to help when called upon, he enjoyed giving historical talks about Seneca Falls and the Finger Lakes he loved so much.
As a driver for Meals on Wheels, he delivered hot meals to shut-ins twice a week. Red Cross Executive Director Lynne Tyler said it will take two or more volunteers to fill his routes.
I was honored to know and work with him. He will be greatly missed. Doris Wolf
A tremendous loss to the community. Richard was a gentleman and a true volunteer who gave so much to the citizens of Seneca County. May he rest in peace.