Albert Burkus

Albert D. Burkus also known as “Vinegar Al.” He liked bright colors and loud Hawaiian shirts; and to our horror would sometimes combine the two. His fashion sense was “classic quirky.” He was convinced that it was HE who made the suit pocket puff fashionable. He recently pointed out a picture in GQ magazine and reminded us that he brought it back. He was a Patriotic Veteran having served in the Navy. He loved the American flag and strongly believed it to be sacred. He was the first to point out the proper flag etiquette. He had a huge tender heart and always cried at the finale of the movie “Dirty Dancing” as well as “Les Miserables” and “Phantom of the Opera.”

He had a quick wit and loved a good joke. His animated delivery and timing were impeccable. He loved to make us laugh with his shenanigans. It wasn’t unusual to find his false teeth on the edge of your dinner plate. He loved the roar of our laughter.

He loved playing golf. Honestly, he could say he got a hole in one! He is the only member of the Crystal Lake Country Club to naturally birdie all five par 3’s in a single round and not break a 100. He has requested that you remember him suntanned, swinging a golf club and with a smile on his face.

He was a fantastic dancer, light on his feet and fun to watch. He was often requested by many as a dance partner. But no one could keep up, quite like his “Aggie.” He demonstrated great pride having danced on American Bandstand. He loved music of all kinds, especially Motown. He faced his long and challenging health issues with optimism. He so badly wanted to have a new set of kidneys by his 70th birthday. And he was blessed with two kidneys! He lovingly named them Dolly Madison. Dolly in honor of the female donor and Madison the city in which the transplant took place. He was so grateful that the transplant opportunity was given to “an old guy like me” and this gave him earned braggart rights.

A prideful man, he handled his death with acceptance, selflessness and with his main request - dignity. His choice, his terms, his time. It was with an aching heart that we honored his wishes. His fight had been long and hard. He hadn’t given up, instead had an acceptance of his failing body. We were given the gift of being able to say goodbye and had valuable and meaningful conversations in our last few days together. He died peacefully, with no regrets and knew how much he was loved.

Please join us in a Celebration of Life on Wednesday April 23, 2014 at the Lakeside Legacy (Dole Mansion) 401 Country Club Rd. , Crystal Lake, IL between the hours of 4-9 pm. He has requested you come in bright happy colors and with a smile on your face. In lieu of flowers, please donate to www.lakesidelegacy.org in his honor. Lastly, if you have not considered organ donation you can sign the back of your driver’s license or register at www.life-source.org. We assure you, he would have given you a high-five.

Born Dec. 11, 1943; in Philadelphia, PA. Died: April 14, 2014; Madison, WI.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Agnes Burkus (nee Hughes), two sons, Kevin Burkus, Brian Burkus (Kim), and a daughter Colleen Gardner (John), and his prized granddaughter, Josie Gardner, AKA “His Josephine.” Also, survived by his brother, Daniel Burkus (Marie) and sister, Barbara Kintz. He is also survived by many loving family members and dear friends.

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