Thomas Charles Burkard, Jr.

October 9, 1938 - April 7, 2021

We are saddened to announce the passing of Tom Burkard on Wednesday, April 7th, 2021. Tom passed away peacefully with his wife by his side and after his children were able to be with him to say their goodbyes. Tom’s family gratefully thanks the wonderful and compassionate care the team at Sequoia Hospital gave to him.

Tom was an only child, born Thomas Charles Burkard Jr. on October 9, 1938 in San Francisco. He was a Sunset district native and a graduate of Lincoln High School. Tom was preceded in death by his father, Thomas, Sr. and his mother, Blessing. He is survived by his beloved wife of 38 years, Trish, and proud father to his four children, Chuck, Donna, Scott, and Susan, his stepchildren, Chris and Melissa, as well as his loving grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

After proudly fulfilling his duty with the US Army, Tom joined his father at Progress Glass Company in 1958. His son, Chuck, joined his father in business in 1976 and together they built it into the thriving commercial glass company it is today. His unstoppable work ethic and dedication to his business was what drove Tom. He was working from home right up until the end, just the way he wanted it. Tom was proud of the fact that over the years other family members joined the company including his daughter, Donna, and grandchildren, Jessica and CJ, truly making it a multigenerational family business.

Through the years, Tom and Trish enjoyed traveling throughout Europe especially to Ireland to see the homes of their grandparents, as well as visiting other relatives. They also loved taking cruises throughout Europe and China. As members of the St. Francis Yacht Club, they enjoyed taking their boat out on the bay as well as to Tinsley Island (when Trish could get Tom away from his six day work week).

Tom’s other passion was his lifelong devotion to Freemasonry. Raised in Balder Lodge, he became Master in 1977 and then Potentate with the Asiya Shriners in 2016. His Shrine put out a statement including this quote, “Asiya Shriners feels emptier without Illustrious Tom’s smile. He was a true Mason, an admirable Noble and a friend like no other.” The family welcomes donations to the Shriners Hospitals for Children:

https://donate.lovetotherescue.org