Gordon Larry Burel

Gordon Larry Burel, age 84 of Gainesville, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on January 3, 2019.

He was the son of Gordon and Mary Bess Cain Burel of Buford, Georgia. Larry was a graduate of the University of Georgia and was a member of the Sigma Nu fraternity.

While at college he met and married the love of his life, Patricia Hecker. They began their life together while Larry served in the artillery branch of the United States Army.

Making a home in Buford, Larry worked and managed the family owned grocery store as well as opening his own convenience stores. His stores were the first in Gwinnett County to offer self-serve gasoline. Larry was also a volunteer for the Gwinnett County Fire Department.

Moving to Gainesville, he made a career in real estate as a land broker. He was an active member in the community, serving as a member of the Kiwanis Club and Rotary Club. He was a member of Grace Episcopal Church, where he served as Junior Warden and Sunday school teacher. He was a loving, faithful, and generous father and friend. He enjoyed traveling, exploring and reading.

Larry is survived by his wife of 62 years, Patricia Hecker Burel; daughter and son-in-law Susan and Paul Porter of Gainesville; grandson John Porter of Gainesville; son and daughter-in-law Paul and Sandy Burel of Gainesville; grandson William Burel of Gainesville; granddaughter Sara Burel Crawford and her husband Scotty; great grandsons Waylon Crawford, Bradley and Nicholas Burel; sister Janice Davis of Buford.

There will be a private family interment in the All Souls’ Columbarium Garden of Grace Episcopal Church in Gainesville. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to a favorite charity of choice. Online condolences can be made at www.memorialparkfuneralhomes.com. Memorial Park North Riverside Drive, 989 Riverside Drive, Gainesville Georgia 30501. 770-297-6200.