Burnham, Walter "Buck"

Walter “Buck” Burnham, 88, of South Windsor, passed away peacefully at home, on February 25, 2024, surrounded by his family. Born In Hartford Connecticut in 1935 to the late Walter H. and Nilda (Valente) Burnham, Walter grew up in East Hartford, attended East Hartford Public schools, graduating in 1953. Walter worked as a carpenter building homes in South Windsor before starting a career at the Aetna as a supervisor in the carpentry department.

Walter was enlisted in the US Army Reserves for six years and would talk often about his time at Fort Dix. In 1961, he married the love of his life, Elaine Keney, and they started their life together living in East Hartford for a time before moving to South Windsor. Walter and Elaine settled on Old Main Street, where he began a lifelong project of restoring their family home. Walter was a devoted Catholic and belonged to Saint Francis of Assisi Church in South Windsor. Walter loved to travel and vacation at Saratoga and Lake George. He also had a love for horses and frequented Saratoga Racetrack. Walter was also an avid golfer who could often be found at Topstone golf course.

Walter is survived by his daughter Darlene Hofmann and her husband John of South Windsor; his son Michael Burnham of Coatesville PA and his close friend Tom Ferraro; his son Paul Burnham and his wife Deborah of South Windsor, his sister Dorothy Bradley, niece Debbie Bradley and her husband, David of St. Croix. Walter also leaves 4 adored grandchildren, Andrew Hofmann and his wife Lianne of Willimantic, Eric Hofmann, Jennifer Burnham, and Elizabeth Burnham all of South Windsor along with many cousins, nieces, nephews and many good friends. In addition to his parents, Walter was predeceased by his wife Elaine and daughter Darcy.

Walters's family would like to express their profound gratitude to Theresa, Safiayetou, Mariamma, Beverly, Diane, Mariama, Heidi, Alison & Annie for their devotion to Walter's care. They would also like to thank Masonicare Hospice.

Calling hours will be on Thursday, February 29, 2024, from 10-11:30 am with a service at 11:30 am at the Samsel & Carmon Funeral Home, 419 Buckland Road in South Windsor. Burial will follow in Center Cemetery, Old Main Street in South Windsor. Memorial donations may be made to the South Windsor Human Services for the benefit of the Food & Fuel Bank. To leave a condolence please visit www.carmonfuneralhome.com