Rush, NY: Arlene (Radcliff-Morristell) Burdett died February 6, 2020 after a long illness.
Born July 22, 1940 in Auburn, NY. Survived by husband Wayne, children Kathleen and Michael, sisters Karen (Alan) Hahnel and Jeanne (David) Windhauser, beloved nephews Adam (Katie) Hahnel and Ryan Windhauser, and treasured niece Amanda Hahnel. Predeceased by father Edward Radcliff, stepfather Arthur Morristell, and mother Rose Morristell.
Arlene believed that a day was wasted if she didn’t laugh. She never met a stranger and greeted everyone with a smile.
A graduate of Penn Yann (NY) Academy, Arlene went on to work as a bookkeeper and as a buyer for a chain of party stores, a vital parent volunteer at her children’s schools, and a school board member for the Rush-Henrietta district. By far her proudest accomplishment was her family and the warm, loving, and fun-filled home that she created with her husband of 48 years. Anyone who visited the Burdett home in Rush, NY left with a full stomach and a smile on their face, the result of Arlene’s delicious home cooking and being regaled with stories of the Burdett family’s many adventures in their motorhome and the shenanigans that Arlene, Wayne, and their friends engaged in as members of the Monroe Y Ski Club. In that organization during the late 1960s and early 70s, Arlene and Wayne were among several couples to meet and eventually marry and the bonds of friendship formed proved to be lifelong.
Known as “Mom” and “Bubba” to many and a friend to all as well as an enthusiastic celebrator of her Irish heritage, Arlene’s annual St. Patrick’s Day visits to her children’s classrooms introduced many R-H students and staff to the magic of leprechauns along with her scrumptious cookies. Friends of Kathleen and Michael always knew that Mrs. Burdett would provide a reliable ride home from school activities, often a stop for a treat along the way, and a firm correction if they misbehaved. Most of all, Arlene “Bubba” Burdett cared deeply: about her family, friends, and community. The world is a better place because she was in it and her legacy is one of love and happiness.
The family would like to express their gratitude to the staffs at Brookdale-Pittsford, St. John’s Home, and Lifespan Hospice.
On Saturday, February 15, 2020 the family will receive friends beginning at 1:00 pm at the Rush United Methodist church (6200 Rush Lima Rd, Rush, NY 14543) followed by a celebration of Arlene’s life at 2:00 pm.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association- Rochester and Finger Lakes Region (435 East Henrietta Rd., Rochester, NY 14620). Tribute to Bubba’s indomitable spirit can be paid by wearing red, her favorite color, and by making someone smile.
Mrs. Burdett was part of my childhood as Kate is one of my closest friends. I will remember her laughing. Not sure I ever saw a frown on her face. You were loved Arlene and will be missed. To Kate, Wayne and Michael- I am so very sorry for your loss. Much love Tara
Wayne, and family, I am so sorry for your loss. I remember well Arlene’s visits to the Transportation Department, especially on St. Patrick’s Day. After her visit in 2001, I was picking tiny shamrocks out of my hair and clothes for three days! I always made sure I was wearing a hat when she came around. Arlene was a very special lady, and will be missed by all who ever met her. Rest in peace, Arlene.
My deepest sympathies. I seved on the RH school board with Arlene. She was always dedicated to the children of the district. It was a pleasure and privilege to have served on the board with her. Dave Pennella
Wayne, Kate and Michael – I am so sorry for your loss. As I sit here thinking about her, it brings back so many wonderful memories and how full of life she was. The last time I saw her was at an election day dinner at the fire hall. At first she didn’t seem to know who I was, and then it was like a light hit her and she knew and started asking about all of our kids and how they were doing. She was truly a great friend, whether it was involving sharing her two children with me for a time, scouting, or working at R-H. And yes, I remember well her antics on St. Patrick’s Day – just a fun-loving person and friend. She will be missed.
Wayne and family, We just learned of Arlene’s passing. Our memories are of the good ole days of ski club bus trips and picnics. So many good times and laughs. She was a treasure and will be missed. So sorry for your loss.
Sally and John Atkins
My sincere sympathies to Arlene’s family. May she rest in peace.
Pat Martens Lussier
My condolences to Arlene’s family. I was a classmate of hers in Penn Yan.