PHONE: (972) 562-2601 Steve L. Burch III January 22, 1955 - October 3, 2016 Steve was born January 22, 1955 in Lexington, Virginia and departed this earthly world for his heavenly home on October 3, 2016 in Plano, Texas after a lifetime courageous battle with heart disease. Steve was the first child of Steve L. Burch, Jr. and Edna Mae Taylor. Steve spent his childhood in Virginia and moved to Texas in 1970. Though he spent more than half his life in Texas, he still felt like Virginia was home. Steve was a 1973 honor graduate from Euless Trinity High School and then attended Texas A&M University where he met the love of his life, Troie Ann Pruett. He graduated from Texas A&M with a B.S. in Zoology in 1977. While at Texas A&M, Steve was a proud member of the Corps of Cadets and was honored to be selected as a Ross Volunteer, the governor s honor guard. After graduation from Texas A&M University, he married Troie, on August 6, 1977 in Victoria, Texas. They were blessed with a wonderful marriage of 39 years. They shared many vacations with their children, they loved camping, attending Texas Aggie Football games, and they shared the love of the Lord. Steve started an MBA at Texas A&M with plans for Hospital Administration before he went to the University of Texas Health Science Center Dental School in San Antonio where he graduated in 1982. After Dental School, Steve and Troie moved to Allen, TX in August 1982, where he opened his dental practice and they have lived ever since. Steve was so proud of his children and loved being a daddy more than anything. He coached Stephen in sports that he never had played and was so proud to be Taryn s Dance Dad on and off the stage. One of his biggest honors in life, was to see his children decide to follow Christ and baptize both of them. He was passionate about practicing the art and science of dentistry; he loved the staff in his office like a second family and was blessed to have many long tenured employees. Most of all he loved the interaction with his patients. He often came home telling of some way he was able to help one of them through dentistry or just with life. Many said they were afraid of the dentist until they went to Steve.
He was not ashamed to share his faith with anyone. He was extremely generous in many ways that were not publicly known and would do anything he could to help someone. His patients loved him as they knew he would always have a joke or a kind word for them. More than anything, Steve loved God, followed by his family, and his Fightin Texas Aggies! He was as maroon blooded as any Aggie and most of his wardrobe reflected that. For those attending the services, the wearing of Aggie maroon is to honor Steve. Throughout his life, he taught many Bible Classes - from toddlers, teens, to adults and even tried his hand at preaching a few times. The many church families and our Connecting Point group at Greenville Oaks were very dear to him. Steve was an active member of the Allen Rotary Club having served twice as the local club President and in many other Board positions. He held perfect attendance for 33 years and he was a two time Paul Harris Fellow. Golfing with his buddies was a wonderful outlet for him and he cherished the friends that he played with on many golf courses, including his favorites - Pebble Beach and Scotland. Steve never gave up, though he was often limited by his heart. While his physical heart was troubled, this spiritual heart was warm and limitless. Steve is survived by his wife of 39 years, Troie; his son, Stephen Burch IV (Natalie); his daughter, Taryn McPherson (Ben); and the apple of his eye, his precious granddaughter, Ivy Grae McPherson, who knew him as her G-Daddy. In addition, he is survived by his mother, Edna Mae Wilson; his father, Steve L. Burch Jr. and stepmother, Marsha; sisters, Debbie Miller, Karen Perry (Dwight), Cindy Burch (Rick Mackey); and brothers, Tim Burch (Candace), Scott Burch (Becky), and Jeffrey Burch; brother-in-law, Terrell Pruett (Becky); numerous nephews, nieces, dear friends, staff members, relatives; and his lap buddies, Charlie and Sarge. Pallbearers are Ben McPherson, Terrell Pruett, Trent Pruett, Tyler Pruett, Tucker McLemore, Brody McLemore, Scott Burch, and Rick Mackey. Honorary Pallbearers are Stephen Burch, Steve L. Burch, Jr, Tim Burch, Cody Burch, Paul Lonquist, Kyle Lonquist, Jack Conley, Jim Oldham, and Allen Boyer. Steve is preceded in death by his parents-in-law, Troy and Barbara Pruett; and his grandparents, Essie Fitzgerald, Stephen Matthew Burch, and Elwood and Mamie Taylor. Visitation will be held at Greenville Oaks Church of Christ in Allen, TX at 1:00 pm on Friday, October 7, 2016, just prior to the Celebration of Life at 2:00 pm at the church. Burial will follow at Ridgeview Memorial Park at Turrentine Jackson Morrow Funeral Home, in Allen, TX. Charitable contributions in Steve s honor may be made to a college fund for his grandchildren (to be established), the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets Association, or the American Heart Association. Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. And you know the way to where I am going. John 14:1-4 Memorials My deepest sympathies to you and your family. I am so glad to have visited
with you both at our 40th Trinity High School reunion in 2013. Thinking and praying for you at this difficult time. KAREN A. KNIGHT, DDS, NOVEMBER 28, 2016 Dr. Burch, What a great man of God and an amazing person in all respects. You will be truly missed by all who knew you. The Wright Family RYAN WRIGHT, OCTOBER 29, 2016 Dr. Burch was a very great man. His 'chair-side manner' kept us smiling with his humor and kidding each time we came for a visit. He was a master at understanding what we were trying to convey with a whole mouthful of dental devices. He took time to visit with us, sharing stories of his family as well. Gustav, Hans, Karl and I will miss him, and feel fortunate to know him as we did. Bless you all. MARDALEE BURWITZ, OCTOBER 28, 2016 I was so very sorry to hear about Dr. Burch. I had been a patient of his for a very long time.; (about 30 years). As sad as I am about his death, I know that he is with the Lord. He loved Texas A&M and was a great promoter of them. I just want his family to know how much I thought of him and what a very good dentist he was. May God be with you through all of this and continue with His blessing in the future. BARBARA EMMONS, OCTOBER 26, 2016 Troie-- We apologize for the late note but were not aware until today of your loss. Our hearts go out to you and your family as you move forward. There are not any words that can express our sorrow but please know that you are truly in our thoughts and prayers as you continue God''s journey. You and Steve were so blessed with 39 years of wonderful memories. We know you will hold those memories dear. Take care and God bless! Again, our sincerest condolences. Jay and Melanie Hughes JAY & MELANIE HUGHES, OCTOBER 23, 2016 I am so sorry for your loss. I loved coming into the office and seeing him even though I did not like going to the dentist - he was such a great man I loved to tease him and joke - we have lost a great man and Heaven has gained a new
angel. He will be missed by so many I have been coming to him for over 30 years he is the only dentist I have ever liked. Praying for all of the family and office family. BECKY VAUGHN, OCTOBER 17, 2016 I have lost my one and only dentist and a very dear friend, miss you and will see you in heaven. PALMA COATNEY, OCTOBER 13, 2016 Dr. Burch was our family dentist for many years. Unfortunately, we left his practice several years ago and I truly hated doing so. He and his staff always made us feel so comfortable and at ease. Dr. Burch was always so easy-going and joyful and we loved his jokes, stories and sense of humor. I never quite understood his enthusiasm for the Aggies and the color maroon until my own children became Aggies. Of course, now I understand! I know we would ve enjoyed talking to Dr. Burch about the many Aggie traditions and everything A&M. Oddly enough, that s how we re-connected with Steve. Joining the local Aggie Moms club, meeting Troie and going to club events, allowed us to chat and catch up with Steve and I am so grateful for that. He was truly a good person who was loved by everyone and he will surely be missed. Troie, you and your family are in our hearts, thoughts and prayers. Love always, John, Maria, Kaylan and Daniel Betten THE BETTEN FAMILY, OCTOBER 9, 2016 Even though Kevin and I moved to Katy, Texas three years ago, Dr. Burch continued to be our dentist. We loved him and would not even consider going to another dentist. His wit, his dental skill, his enthusiasm for the Aggies, and his genuine concern for us patients and friends will never be forgotten. Steve will be missed. To Troie and family, you are in our thoughts and prayers. With deepest sympathy, Beverly and Kevin Joyce BEVERLY AND KEVIN JOYCE, OCTOBER 8, 2016 Troie and family, I was saddened to hear of Steve's passing. The service was lovely. Steve and George were taken too soon. People say things become easier with time, but I'm still waiting for that to happen. Your family and friends
help so much. Keep them close. I have wonderful memories of you, Steve, and the Lonquist family. Heaven is richer today. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Jan Theilen JAN THEILEN, OCTOBER 7, 2016 Troie Ann & family, I never got to meet Steven, but enjoyed seeing posting you stared on Facebook. I know firsthand that death of family members and spouse can be devastating. My prayer is that our God in his mercy will extend a n extra measure of comfort and peace on each and every one affected. NOBLE DAVIS, OCTOBER 7, 2016 Dear Troie.. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May God bless each of you and comfort you with his love during this time. KRISTI KING, OCTOBER 7, 2016 Prayers and peace for Steve's family. So glad I reconnected with him just before his surgery and passing. It was meant to be. I still remember his smile and laugh as we sat across from each other for 4 years in Dental School. God's speed, Steve. SANDRA CARSON, DDS, OCTOBER 6, 2016 To Troie, Stephen, Taryn, and the entire family of Dr. Steve Burch: Vivian and I are trusting that God will be with you and bless you as you deal with the loss of Steve. We loved him as a great next door neighbor, friend, and the best Dentist in the world. FRANK BATES, OCTOBER 6, 2016 We have so many wonderful memories of Steve. Please accept our condolences and know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. DEREK AND BRENITA WALKER, OCTOBER 6, 2016 I am still stunned. I have been a patient with Dr. Burch for 26 years, he took care of my kids and my grand children. The first time I saw him I told him how I could empty out a waiting room because I may scream due to my fear. After all these years, I never made a noise and I looked forward to going. Dr. Burch and his team made you instantly feel comfortable and the laughs we had made you enjoy your visit. I will forever miss him. My thoughts and prayers are with your
family. May the Lord wrap his arms around you to give you strength and comfort. SHEILA CANNON, OCTOBER 6, 2016 We are very saddened by the passing of your husband. Please accept our sincere sympathy. Know that grief is not a sign of weakness or the loss of faith, but the price of love. Clearly, there was lots of love in your family. Sally Holland Gustafson SALLY HOLLAND GUSTAFSON, OCTOBER 6, 2016 Steve loved to play golf!! He wasn't a scratch golfer; but that didn't matter - he still loved to play. I didn't know it at the time but I played with Steve the last round he ever got to play. He was cleared by his doctors to try and play if he felt OK. He called and we arranged to play one Saturday morning. We got lucky; the twosome we were going to get paired with called and cancelled. So it was just the two of us. Steve was a little weak and his breathing was labored some during the round. But he soldiered on. I asked him several times if he wanted to stop, but he insisted that we keep playing. If he got a little tired he would just rest for a hole or two and ride along and watch me play. But Steve did complete the round. I knew he was really tired; legs were cramping and he was having trouble catching his breath. We drove to a sub shop and had lunch together. And then we parted ways and headed home. It was my honor and privilege to be with Steve for his last round of golf!! So from all the "putterheads" (and you know who you are), we'll miss our times together on the golf course. We dearly miss you old buddy. Thanks for the memories. JACK CONLEY, OCTOBER 6, 2016 OUR DEEPEST CONDOLANCE AND THE GREATEST LOSS TO ALL. MAY OUR LORD AND SAVIOR BE WITH YOU ALL. DOC WAS A FRIEND AND A LOVING MAN. MAY HIS LIFE BE ETERNAL, MAY HE REST IN PEACE, DOC YOU WILL BE MISSED GABRIEL & JANEL TOUMA, OCTOBER 6, 2016 Steve was a wonderful person, husband, father, grandfather and friend. He will definitely be missed. He lived a good life and his family has so many
wonderful memories. Condolences to the family, it is hardest on those left behind as we know Steve is in a glorious place in Heaven. KATHY SMITH, OCTOBER 6, 2016 This photo of Steve makes us smile! To celebrate his life will take longer than one night?! You both are so blessed to share an amazing life together. Hugs to you my friend! Clark and Christy Kinnaird CLARK AND CHRISTY KINNAIRD, OCTOBER 6, 2016 Dr Steve is the only dentist I ever trusted, and have been his patient and friend for over 30 years. I (Cassie) was raised at Buckner Childrens Home and have horror stories about the dental care we received there. Dr Steve erased all my fears, and performed extensive dental care for me and my family. When our son was going through some issues, he spent time with me in his office assuring me that he would do whatever he could to help. He is our friend and through his stories and photos we feel like we know all of you, his family. He was such a joyful man and his countenance radiated with Christian love. We are devastated by his leaving but also comforted in the knowledge that this life is a blink of an eye, and we will soon be reunited with those we love. Please feel our prayers and love for your precious family. Love, Wes & Cassie Crews WES & CASSIE CREWS, OCTOBER 6, 2016 Troie and Family - so very sorry for your loss of Steve. I will keep you in my prayers during this difficult time. May he rest in peace. KIT ROYAL BOLTE, OCTOBER 6, 2016 We are so sorry for the loss of this sweet man. We are praying for strength and comfort for his loved ones. He will be missed! NAPOLITAN FAMILY, OCTOBER 6, 2016 I am so sad this very day. Steve Burch, one of my dear brothers here on this earth, has passed from this life. Completely did not see it coming. And again I am reminded how bitter the sting of death. Steve, I love you still, I will always miss you, and you will never be forgotten. He was our dentist for some 40
years. Worked on Susan and my teeth, and the teeth of my little children as they were growing up. Indeed the work of his hands is in my mouth. We started out together many years ago in the same church, and then somehow we ended up in a small bible study here in Allen on our block. We met at Bill and Robin s house, and the kids were baby sat here in my house. That was the arrangement we had for years. I will always remember the many so funny stories Steve told, but I think I made him laugh the hardest when I told him about the one time how I fell asleep on the bus coming home - only to wake and my find my whole tie from the top down wet because I had gone to sleep on the bus with my mouth open. No telling how long I was like this and no telling what people thought about me, but I was happy that it made Steve laugh. We went on ski trips together and the fodder for funny stories about Steve on the slopes was abundant! Steve was such a goof, but he had no problem laughing at himself - in fact, Steve was one of the most humble persons I know - his heart was very soft. I don t think a lot of people knew that looking at him from the outside. I remember his serious moments too. I listened to his heart intently during those days in the Bible Study because he said things that came from very deep. Like me, he struggled with many things in this world, but he honestly talked about them and shared both his fears and his hopes and dreams. He was a wonderful Christian man who loved Jesus. He stood up for truth no matter what - and it always pointed back to the Lord. He is an Aggie and I am a Tech Red Raider - mortal enemies since the beginning of time. But Steve never once let any of that get in the way of our friendship. We could have each of us, been unmerciful towards one another when our teams won and lost against each other, but we never did. The man walked with Christ in all facets of life. So Steve, in this dark moment, I lower my flag in your memory. Thanks for all this and so much more that you did here in this life - the world was better because of you, I suppose it didn t deserve the likes of you - you were destined for something better. I know that you are with Him now. I know that He is happy to finally have you. I know that my Redeemer lives. You were His to begin with. And someday I will see you again. This
morning I read Psalm 146: The Lord sets the prisoners free. And then I remembered what the Lord said when He said if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. Now you see this clearly, and it gives me great comfort to know that. I am thinking about your family now and pray for their comfort and peace. They loved you very much and will dearly miss you. I know that you loved them very much too, that much was evident. Someday, they too will be able to let you go, but not easily. It s what we are left with. We all have to set our eyes on not what we can see, but what we cannot see. At the end of it all, we only have Jesus. I pray that God s spirit will be very near your family during these days. We have no doubt that you are in good hands. Gig em. LARRY AND SUSAN REDDING, OCTOBER 6, 2016 I am so very sorry for your loss. My sincere condolences to Troie, his family all who loved Steve. BEV LOVING, OCTOBER 6, 2016 Just found out about Steve's death. I am very sad. Cathy and I will miss him a lot. He was a good man. His heart was true, and he lived life with a great sense of humor. He has dealt with so many complex and difficult things from a health standpoint. I am thankful that he is at peace, but mourning the fact that I will not be around him any more. My life was better having been a part of his life. Dr. Huebner MITCHELL HUEBNER, MD, OCTOBER 6, 2016 Steve Burch was the first dentist I worked for when my family and I moved to Texas from Minn. Although I only worked for him for three years, I can recall his jokes and anecdotes with a smile. He took pride in Troie's impact in their community, and found joy in each milestone achieved by Stephen and Taryn. I enjoyed getting to know more about Texas and Virginia through the eyes of Dr Burch. He was a special combination of intelligence, hard work, Godly faith, and humor. JAN POLIVKA, OCTOBER 6, 2016 My prayers are for you Troie and your family in this time of sorrow. GINGER THOMPSON, OCTOBER 6, 2016
God bless you my friend. Rest in peace. RAY SCHAAK SR, OCTOBER 6, 2016 Steve was our dentist since we came to Allen in 1983. A super dentist, a "real" person that always seemed to know what words you needed to hear whether to quite fears, to cheer you up, or just to exchange pleasantries about family, friends, or food. We will miss him terribly. WANIDA AND JERRY DUKE, OCTOBER 5, 2016 i am so so so sorry to hear of your loss Troie...i will hold your family in prayer during this time..i am so shocked...i always enjoy your family pictures on facebook and could tell there was so much love and joy in your life...i love you JOCHERYL HOLCOMBE, OCTOBER 5, 2016 Troie, i was so sorry to learn of Steve's death. While I have not seen either of you since your Victoria wedding, i maintain fond memories of our years at A&M. Reading the many posts about Steve is evidence of a life well lived in faithful service to Jesus Christ. While the pain and sorrow of your loss is very real at this time, the truth of Philippians 1:21 is equally real for Steve right now. "For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain." We will continue to pray for you and your family in the days ahead. G. H. Cain G. H. CAIN, OCTOBER 5, 2016 So sorry for your loss. Aggies live forever in all our hearts. Especially the truly great ones. TOMMY DILLON, OCTOBER 5, 2016 Our hearts are filled with sorrow over Steve's passing. Just know that you are in our thoughts, Troie Ann, along with your family. JIM MADEWELL, OCTOBER 5, 2016 From time to time Steve and I would eat at the same table at Rotary Club. Each time, I would ask him how his heart was doing. He would respond "Still ticking," but he knew that the odds were against him. He never let it show, was always upbeat, happy, He loved his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, his family, his church, his work, his Aggies. He carried on like nothing was wrong with his heart. In short, Steve taught us how to live and die. Thank God for people like
Steve Burch. STEPHEN ALLEN '67, OCTOBER 5, 2016 Troie, Taryn & Stephen, we are so sorry for your loss. Steve was such an excellent example of a child of God, husband, father, friend and Gdaddy that he will be missed so much! May God hold you in His loving arms during this difficult time. STEVE AND CATHERINE WEHLAND, OCTOBER 5, 2016 Steve Burch has been our family dentist, and more importantly our friend, for over 30 years. We all looked forward to every visit where we would talk about family, church, Allen and of course -- the Aggies. His humor was legendary; my youngest son would study for weeks before his next visit to "out pun" him. His compassion was boundless. There will never be anyone like him in his profession. His influence and love will be missed. Steve, old buddy, pal, friend, amigo, kemosabe... I look forward to seeing you once more. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. CHRIS CAMPBELL, OCTOBER 5, 2016 My father-in-law, Larry Redding, and mother-in-law, Susan, love Steve and his family dearly - I have heard numerous stories of their fun times together and seen my in-law family's deep sorrow at his passing. From someone who did not know Steve well, I can attest to the fact that his impact is felt beyond his friends and family - his passing has been sorrowful to me, simply because I see evidence for the depth of connection he had with those I love. Prayers for peace and comfort for his wife and children are being offered; the pain that I feel from his passing attests to the bond of family we have in Jesus Christ. Though my path may have not crossed with Steve's path often, I hurt for my fellow Believers, and I rejoice at Steve's reception in Heaven. I await the day when we will all be together again to celebrate our redemption in Christ. Love to all! AMANDA REDDING, OCTOBER 5, 2016 I am so sorry for your loss. Steve was my dentist since we moved here 16 years ago and a brother in Christ. It was actually fun to go to his office. The
camaraderie in there was like none I've ever seen. I will miss him greatly.. I am daily praying for your family. FRANCES HADLEY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 Dr. Burch you have been apart of our family for the past 25 years you are the only dentist my children have ever been to, you did both our daughter's orthodontic work, you would meet me anytime to put a temp crown back in. I loved bringing you a loaf of banana bread when I had appointments the recipe that I would make was my grandmothers. Steve asked me for the recipe and I was more then happy to give it to him. Steve touched our whole family and we all loved him very much you will be missed. Love always Bill,Cathy,Jessica,Lindsey, & Brad McNulty CATHY MCNULTY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 Troie, Stephen and Taryn: I am stunned and at a loss for words. I cannot imagine your pain and grief. Steve is so many things that are good on this earth - a fine Christian, a faithful and loving husband, a doting father, a proud "Gdaddy", a loyal and witty friend, a patient and caring dentist and a ferocious Fightin' Texas Aggie. Steve never gave up and he will. be grieved for and missed by everyone who knows him. I am praying for your family and all his friends. I know he and Jesus are walking together, just like Ivy said. LENORA NAYLOT, OCTOBER 5, 2016 I just didn't didn't want to give you up yet buddy. JIM OLDHAM, OCTOBER 5, 2016 Troie: Even though we lost track of you all after we left Pitman Creek and moved to Irving we were saddened to hear of Steve's passing. We remember Steve as a great guy in the Bible classes during the years we attended church at Pitman Creek. He will be missed. May God bless you and your family in your loss. Arnold & Beatriz Campos 400 Silverton Drive Irving, TX 75063 ARNOLD & BEATRIZ CAMPOS, OCTOBER 5, 2016 So sorry to hear about Steve. I have been in a state of shock since I heard the news. Love you and keeping you all in my prayers. ALICE RIGSBY, OCTOBER 5, 2016
Dr. Burch...my family and I are at a loss for words. We truly looked forward to our dentist visits as you made dental work "bearable". Rest in peace sir and know that you were loved and respected by those you came in contact with through your work. Cliff, Jacob and Skylar Shaw. CLIFF SHAW, OCTOBER 5, 2016 To one of the Greatest Men I've met in my life... You married the Greatest Woman, and Together you created a Beautiful Life! You have 2 Great Children and an Amazing Grand Daughter! Sir, You Will Be Greatly Missed... LAURA & MARTINA BROWN, OCTOBER 5, 2016 Here's the memory DICKIE, OCTOBER 5, 2016 Oh man I really am gonna miss everything about him especially bidding against him on golf memorabilia. Still have the 2005 Pinehurst Flag hanging in my office and I forever will. DICKIE MAYER, OCTOBER 5, 2016 Troie, so sorry for your loss. I think of you a lot, especially when we are in a mess here at Blount Fine Foods (formerly Food Source. I could always depend on you to have the answer. My prayer are with you and your family. Sorry I can attend the funeral but I will be out of town that day. JERRY THOMPSON, OCTOBER 5, 2016 Steve was a great friend. always happy, always joking, always making people smile. even the little one's found themselves drawn to his comforting style. life will never be the same without him. may god bless him and his family - he will never be forgotten. MR & MRS FRANK MALFITANO, OCTOBER 5, 2016 Steve was a great servant for the Lord. He will be greatly missed. Our hearts
go out to the family. Our prayers are with all of you. LARRY & PEGGY HOLLY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 You all are in our thoughts and prayers. May you feel God's arms around you at this time. NEAL AND NATALIE DAUGHERTY AND KIDS, OCTOBER 5, 2016 Family Owned Since 1945 Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow is the premier provider of funeral services in North Texas, with seven convenient locations and three beautiful memorial parks. We are a locally owned family business that has served North Texas for over 70 years. Families who visit us receive the highest quality of professionalism and service, with compassion and care that are unsurpassed. Copyright 2015 (972) 562-2601