Roll Call Tribute

Peter Longworth Burch

May 28, 1947 - November 17, 2025

"Mr. Peter Longworth Burch, a man of profound integrity and unwavering dedication to his family, passed away peacefully on November 17, 2025, in Tyler, Texas, at the age of 78. Born in Darby, Pennsylvania, on May 28, 1947, to Dr. George William Burch and Dare Lorainne Ingold Burch, Peter's life was defined by quiet strength, innovative spirit, and a deep devotion to those he loved.

Peter grew up in Tyler and graduated from Robert E. Lee High School. He pursued higher education at Texas A&M University, where he earned a degree in industrial engineering in 1969. He proudly remained a lifelong Aggie alumnus.

In 1977, a serendipitous blind date introduced him to the love of his life, Janet Ann Parker. He was captivated by her vibrant, free-spirited nature. They were married on July 22, 1978, in Houston, Texas, beginning a 44-year journey of partnership and shared commitment. Together, they built a beautiful family, welcoming a son, David William, in 1979, and a daughter, Laura Renee, in 1980. Peter was a true family pillar, consistently prioritizing the well-being of his wife, children, and grandchildren above all else.

Throughout his distinguished career as an industrial engineer, Peter applied his sharp mind at respected companies throughout Texas including Daniel Industries, Stanley Proto, Perry Equipment, and Chicago Bridge and Iron. He possessed the heart of an inventor, constantly seeking innovative solutions to challenges.

Beyond his professional life, Peter embraced numerous passions. He was an amateur pilot, a lover of precise vocabulary, and a master of the "dad joke," bringing lightheartedness to everyday life. He graciously joined his wife on countless travels across state lines and abroad, often sharing these adventures and creating cherished summer vacation memories with his beloved grandchildren who called him "Epaw."

To all who knew Peter, he will be remembered as a mentor and a peacemaker. He was known for his ability to remain calm amidst chaos, offering a steady presence and a loyal ear as a trusted friend and confidant. Peter and his wife committed their lives to Christ in 1995 and returned to East Texas in 1997 where he found solace fishing at his lakehouse and making memories with those dear to him.

In recent years, Peter faced a decade-long battle with Parkinson's disease with remarkable resilience and grace. He found community and strength as an active member of the Rock Steady Boxing chapter at Tyler Kung Fu & Fitness, an organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with neurological diseases through physical therapy.

Peter is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Janet Ann Parker Burch; his parents, Dr. George William Burch and Dare Ingold Burch; and his brothers, John William Burch and Steven Joseph Burch.

Peter will be fondly remembered by his brother-in-law William "Bill" Don Parker and wife Elyse, as well as his sister-in-law Mary Jane Connell and husband Fred.

He leaves behind a lasting legacy through his children: Tracy Zervas, Christi Wedel, David William Burch and his wife Chesley, and Laura Renee Burch. Peter also leaves behind nieces Lauren Parker Homan and her husband Ben, and Ashlyn Parker Egger and her husband Marcus. He will lovingly be remembered by his grandchildren: Zach Zervas and wife Casey, Erika Wedel Sebastian and her husband Timothy, Jacob Zervas, Gavin Barrett and his wife Holly, Averie Williams, Aaron Williams, Austin Rush, and Dare Clementine Burch; grand-nieces Adelynn Egger and Hallie Homan; and great-grandchildren Hadley Zervas, Maison Villegas, Carson Zervas, Savannah Sebastian and Jace Sebastian.

Serving as Pallbearers will be David Burch, Gavin Barrett, Nathan Chestnut, Brad Page,

Branson Page, John Boyd and Corey Hogue

Peter's life will be celebrated on Tuesday, November 25, 2025. Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM, followed by a Memorial Service at 2:00 PM, both held at Grace Community Church, 3215 Old Jacksonville Hwy, Tyler, TX 75701. Following the service, a graveside ceremony will be held at 3:30 PM at Cathedral in the Pines, 7825 S Broadway Ave, Tyler, TX 75703, where he will be laid to rest beside his beloved bride.