Ronald Francis Burdo

Salem – Ronald Francis Burdo, beloved son, brother, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 73 at his daughter’s home, surrounded by loved ones, after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Born on December 16, 1951, in Brattleboro, VT, he was the son of Fredrick and Lorraine (Crowell) Burdo. Ron grew up with his two brothers, Fredrick “Rick” Burdo and Douglas “Doug” Burdo, in the New England states of Vermont, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts.

Ron graduated from high school in Hinsdale, NH, in 1971. He immediately began to demonstrate his strong work ethic and determination to build a good life. He started working in paper mills before transitioning into carpentry—his true passion. Ron’s hard work and attention to detail quickly made him a highly sought-after carpenter. Eventually, he founded a successful construction business, Little R&R Construction, which built many homes and buildings throughout New York and Vermont. After the recession of 1990, Ron made the career decision to join Mack Molding in Arlington, VT. While working there, he attended night school and proudly earned his machinist certification. He retired in 2017 as a Master Tool & Die Machinist.

Ron’s greatest source of pride was not his career, but his family. He married Nancy (Jackson) Fleming in 1973. Although their marriage did not last, their enduring friendship remained. Ron and Nancy had two children, Timothy and Tonia, and raised their family in Salem, NY, in the beautiful home Ron built on Riley Hill Road. He was a proud grandfather to Nekia (Ayden), Kienan, Jacob, Bailey, Chailyn, Wyatt, and Maddox. Ron found his greatest joy in spending time with his family—whether during holiday meals, birthday celebrations, family reunions, school events, or simply connecting over the phone.

When Ron wasn’t with his family, he could often be found working on home projects or enjoying his many hobbies, including motorcycles, a speedboat, and his antique car.

Ron is survived by his children, Timothy (Michele) Burdo of Shaftsbury, VT, and Tonia (AJ) Goddard of Salem, NY; his grandchildren, Kienan Burdo and Jacob Burdo of Shaftsbury, VT, U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Bailey Fifield of Mt. Holly, NJ, Chailyn Fifield of Fort Edward, NY, and Wyatt Fifield and Maddox Goddard of Salem, NY. He is also survived by his brothers, Rick (Sue) Burdo of Hayden, AL, and Doug (Linda) Burdo of Peru, ME, along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his parents, Ron was predeceased by two granddaughters, Nekia (Ayden) Burdo and Carlybelle Goddard.

His family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to everyone who contributed to Ron’s care and happiness at home, including Washington Center Adult Daycare, Community Hospice, and his dedicated caregivers—Brooke, Sierra, Laura, Robin, Jill, and Venus. Their support made all the difference.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, May 8, 2025, from 4:00 to 6:00 PM at the McClellan-Gariepy Funeral Home, 19 East Broadway, Salem. A service will follow the calling hours with Pastor Mike Crandall officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made in Ron’s memory to: http://act.alz.org/goto/TeamBurdo

To express your sympathy or share a memory of Ron, please visit www.gariepyfuneralhomes.com.

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