Burton L. Oliver

In Loving Memory of Burton L. Oliver

Burton L. Oliver, a beloved husband, father, Bompa, brother, and friend, peacefully passed away on June 13, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, and cherished memories. Born on February 3, 1940, in Johnson City, NY, Burt spent his formative years in Maine, NY, but ultimately settled in the home he built in Newark Valley, where he lived a life filled with love and generosity.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Carol (Hollenbeck) Oliver, and his four children: Nathan Oliver and Rachel Romano of Alexandria, VA; Kelly (Lewis) Artman, her husband John Artman, and their children Sean and Sarah of Palm Bay, FL; Karen (Oliver) Kain, her husband Michael Kain, and their children Rowan, Kassidy, Addison, Ryan, Ethan, Jonah, and Kadence of Lehigh Acres, FL; Brian Oliver, his wife Kristin (Shady) Oliver, and their daughters Reagan, Carlee, and Kaycee of Newark Valley, NY. Burt is also survived by his brother, Jerry Oliver (Linda), his sister Lois (Oliver) Roe, as well as his nieces and nephews.

Burt's life was marked by significant milestones and achievements. He graduated from Union Endicott High School in 1957 and went on to earn his Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from the University of Maine. Burt proudly served in the United States Air Force, where he found joy as a part-time disc jockey, sharing his passion for country music with fellow servicemen while stationed in Labrador, Canada. He served his country until he received an honorable discharge in 1964.

Professionally, Burt made significant contributions to the technological landscape. He worked for IBM, where he earned several patents and played a pivotal role in developing components of the first personal computers. While working as an engineer, Burt found the time to obtain his piloting license and enjoyed flying small, fixed wing planes to multiple destinations along the east coast. Renowned for his ingenuity and craftsmanship, Burt was known as a man who could fix anything, from his granddaughter's favorite slinky to intricate machinery. He passed on his passion for technology to his children and grandchildren. He also found great joy in sharing his love of baseball with his family and watching his grandson take the field as a second baseman. His passion for tinkering was evident in his later years as he watched his son Brian carry on his legacy by building a sugar shack for processing maple syrup and the apartment where Burt spent his final years.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Burt's greatest joy lay in spending time with his family and embracing the beauty of the outdoors. His gentle demeanor and quiet strength endeared him to all who knew him, leaving a lasting mark on the hearts of those he touched.

A family graveside service will be held later in the summer, where we will gather to honor and celebrate the remarkable life of Burt L. Oliver. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude’s or the Tunnel to Towers in Burt's memory. Memories and condolences can be shared in Burt’s guestbook at www.macphersonfh.com