DONALD "DON" ROLAND BURFORD, passed away on Saturday, November 16, 2024, at La Posada-Mesilla Valley Hospice in Las Cruces, New Mexico, with his family by his side. Born December 24, 1944, in El Paso, Texas, Don was a Christmas baby, welcomed into the world by his parents, Hugh Gillispie Burford and Gladys Cathrine Goulden Burford. He was the youngest of three sons.

Don graduated from Austin High School, where he met his beloved wife, Susan, with whom he shared 60 wonderful years of marriage. They were proud parents to three children: Rob, Kasey, and Cory and many pets. Shortly after high school, Don joined the Marine Corps, during his time in the military he continued his education in electronics which lead him to becoming a crypto radar tech in Vietnam. Following his service, Don, Susan, and Rob returned to "3921" El Paso, Texas. Don began a long and successful career as a technical representative with Xerox Corp, dedicating 37 years to the company moving the family to various places, including Hobbs, NM, Ruidoso, NM, and "3921" Las Cruces, NM, which brings us full circle, where they have lived since 2002.

In each community where he lived, Don was deeply involved. He was a true "jack of all trades," known for his roles as a Scout Leader, helping to establish a neighborhood swim team, woodworking, photography, sign design and framing beautiful pieces in their Ruidoso shop. He took on projects ranging from school set constructions to building decks for their wonderful home, always willing to lend a helping hand. He was also a member of the University United Methodist church in Las Cruces and served as a trustee for several years.

Traveling was a passion for Don and Susan; they took pride in visiting every state in the U.S., often exploring in their RV with pets and family. These travels highlighted their love of National Parks and nature's wonders, Utah being one of his favorites.

Don is survived by his beloved wife, Susan; their three children, Rob and wife Janine Burford of Albuquerque, Kasey and husband Louis Trujillo of Albuquerque, and Cory Burford of Las Cruces; granddaughters Sarah, and Emily; and great-granddaughter Aurora. He is also survived by his older brothers, Hugh G. Burford, Jr. of Las Cruces and Harry C. Burford and wife Ginny of El Paso, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers send donations to your favorite charity. Thank you, Mesilla Valley Hospice, for the care of Don.

Graveside service will be held at 10 AM Monday, December 23, 2024, at Fort Bliss National Cemetery, 5200 Fred Wilson Ave, El Paso, TX. Military Honors will be accorded by the United States Marine Corps.

Cremation has been entrusted to the care of Baca's Funeral Chapel of Las Cruces and Sunset Crematory, 300 E. Boutz Road, 527-2222. Your exclusive provider for "Veterans and Family Memorial Care." For online condolences logon to www.bacasfuneralchapelslascruces.com