Robert "Bob" L. Burgess, Jr., age 60, of Midwest City, OK, passed away Thursday, September 26, 2013, at his home. Bob was born January 9, 1953 at Fort Hood, TX of parents Robert Lee Bur-gess, Sr. and Shizuko Okmura. He attended school in Lawton, OK, graduating from Lawton High School in 1971, then obtained his Bachelor's degree from Oklahoma State University in 1975. Bob was an excellent athlete, playing sports from a very young age through college. He earned high school All-State honors in both baseball and football going on to be the Cowboys varsity catcher. Bob fell in love with Sharen Thompson and they married on May 17, 1975. Bob was completely dedicated to Sharen and fully committed to raising their daughters. He instilled a strong work ethic and helped them to become successful in academics and athletics. He was a loving and selfless husband and father. Bob began his career, teaching and coaching at Monroney Junior High School, remaining there continuously until retirement in May 2013. He was immensely successful coaching baseball, winning many tournament and conference titles. Coach Burgess influenced many lives, on and off the field. He was well-respected by all who knew him and considered a hero to many. Bob is survived by his wife Sharen and daughters Ste-phanie and husband Wes Barnhart and Jennifer Bur-gess, one grandson Kael Barnhart. He is also survived by his mother Shizuko Burgess; brother Raymond and wife Lori Burgess; and sisters Nancy and husband Roy Hamilton and Dana and husband Harvey McGahee; sister-in-law Karen and husband Jerry Downey; and nephews, nieces and friends. Bob was preceded in passing by his father, Robert L. Burgess, Sr. Visitation will be held at Barnes Friederich Funeral Home, family will greet friends Thursday 6:00pm-8:00pm. Memorial Services are Friday, October 4, at 4:00pm at LifeChurch.tv Midwest City, 6809 E Reno. Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to: The Bob Burgess Scholarship Fund, remitted to: PO Box 756, Choctaw, OK 73020. The fund will assist student athletes in furthering their education.

Published in The Oklahoman on October 2, 2013