George L. Burch, a conductor for the Santa Fe Railway on the company’s Illinois division out of Marceline retired, effective September 23. This retirement ended a career with 40 years of service.
Burch was born and attended schools in Marceline, and began his service with the Santa Fe in 1936, working on both the section and bridge gangs. In September of 1939, Burch transferred to train service as brakeman and was promoted to conductor in 1949. George and his wife, Lucille, are the parents of 12 children including three – Brigette, Rodney, and Robin – who are still at home with them at 624 North Missouri Avenue.
All of the children, with the exception of a daughter who lives in Minnesota, were at home the weekend of October 2 for a dinner honoring their father on his retirement after 40 years with the Santa Fe Railway and his birthday.
From the Brookfield Daily News-Bulletin – October 11, 1976