In Memory of L.J. and Marg Burks
A loving Husband, family man, friend and Co-Founder of Burks Reprographics has passed away.
Leaving us all too soon, on August 19th, 2015 at the age of 83 we are all saddened at the loss.
L.J. was born August 10th 1932 in El Paso Texas, and soon there-after moved with the family to Austin where he graduated from Austin High School and then attended Texas Western and the University of Texas
L.J started his career in reprographics and printing, working for Miller Blueprints, and in 1969 with Miller’s blessing L.J. and wife Marge branched out on their own and founded Burks Reproduction and Supply, a successful company that has just celebrated 46 years in business and is now owned and operated by their son Kevin.
L.J knew when he was around good people, and would take the time to get to know them and welcome them into the Burks family. There is a story from a veteran of the company that when asked in an employment interview if he knew anything about bluelines, blacklines, brownlines or machines the employee said “no but I can cook a damn good chicken fried steak” and from that L.J. laughed at the honesty and promptly went to work showing him how the machines worked. Twenty eight years later that talented senior employee remembers Mr. B as a man of his word, honest and one of kind! L.J. conducted himself in an honest and professional manner throughout his personal and professional life and became a pillar of the community serving on many Boards and Associations.
L.J. frequently represented interest groups at City Counseling meetings, an example of which where his numerous appearances on behalf of the Home Builders Association in support of not raising permit fees, or making significant positive changes to the permitting process. L.J.’s actions at City council were also known as the Chairman of the Civitan Club and its promotion of an LPGA tournament where he requested the club be allowed to sell adult beverages on the course, and so it was granted.
L.J. had a tremendous impact in and around town, he was truly instrumental in changing the shape of Austin as we know it today. An innovator, a leader, an educator and an inspiration.
L.J’s interests were vast and his passion for scouting, little league baseball and city softball were just a few. In more recent years L.J was so happy out there on the links a couple times a week, where chasing the golf ball around the course with his buddies became a favorite pass time. Never was a round complete if he wasn’t causing his Brother J. a little angst as L.J. drove the cart and J hung on for fear of being bounced out.
L.J. was always a kind and dedicated man to his friends, family and wife Marge of 63 years. L.J. leaves behind his loving wife Marge, son Kevin and his wife Joanne: grandchildren Kevin Jr. and Alexandra: sister Connie Speir: brother J Burks and wife Ruthie: and brother-in-law Earl Putman: along with many nieces, nephews numerous other relatives and the community of friends through sports and work. We honor a man who was a true role model.
In celebration of L.J’s life, tell a story, raise a glass, Remember and honor a Great Man.