Obituary of Paul T. Burri Jr.

On Thursday, Aug. 3, just shy of his 68th birthday, Paul T. Burri Jr. died peacefully at home, surrounded by his beloved family. His death followed a year-long illness that, though brutal, could never begin to dim the light and legacy of his rich, vibrant life. Friends describe Paul as "a gentle soul, a man always giving, always smiling and eager to talk or help." It was that signature gentleness, kindness, wit and humor that permeated every relationship and task. His unstoppable energy, impressive endurance and sterling work ethic motivated and inspired all who knew him. A member of the Canandaigua Academy class of 1973, Paul went on to study trombone at Oberlin and Peabody conservatories, earning Bachelor's and Master's Degrees in performance at Eastman School of Music. His musical talent and versatility remained front and center in his decades-long role as principal trombone with the Penfield Symphony Orchestra and in a variety of trombone choirs, brass ensembles, jazz bands and community bands. Paul's artistic and dramatic creativity shone brightly as he regularly wrote, directed and performed hundreds of dramatic sketches with his talented team of actors. His lifelong passion for swimming and biking took him literally thousands of miles over hills and through waves in and around Canandaigua Lake and the Finger Lakes. Through it all, Paul's commitment to God was unwavering and his love for and devotion to his family remained steadfast. His girls and the families they created were his greatest joy. Gratefully cherishing Paul's memory and carrying his legacy forward are wife, Melody, daughters and sons-in-law Robin and James Van Laeken and Julia and Jordan Moore, grandchildren Whitney, Holly, James and Alexander, mother Florence Burri, brothers Michael (Aleta) Burri and Brian Burri, sister Karen (Klaus) Becher, mother-in-law Anne Morey, sisters-in-law Kris (Roy) Macumber and Lisa (Scot) Bennett, and brother-in-law Greg (Melanie) Morey. In lieu of flowers, a "living" memorial fund has been created to help plant some of Paul's favorite trees and perennials to celebrate his life. Find Paul Burri Life & Legacy "Living" Memorial at https://www.gofundme.com/f/paul-burri Calling hours will be Friday, Aug. 11, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Fuller Funeral Home in Canandaigua. A private celebration of life for immediate family will be held at a later date.