Obituary: Manfred “Fred” Ernest Burgbacher

July 11, 1943 ~ November 28, 2022

Manfred “Fred” Burgbacher, 79, of Sister Bay, died Monday, November 28, 2022, at Scandia Village as result of Parkinson’s disease.

Fred was born on July 11, 1943, in Oak Park, Illinois, the son of the late Ernest and Caroline (Woessner) Burgbacher. He grew up in Chicago and graduated from Carl Schurz High School in 1961.  Fred graduated from the University of Illinois specializing in mathematics. He became a computer programmer and during his career worked for Western Electric, Continental Bank, Cook County, and Kemper Financial Services. During his service to our country in the U.S. Navy, Fred was a programmer stationed in Washington, D.C., from 1967-1969.

On August 10, 1968, he married Naomi Rose Johnson of Highland Park, Illinois.  The two met at the University of Illinois nearly two years after they both graduated.  On August 10 of this year they celebrated 54 years of marriage.  After returning from Washington, D.C., the couple bought a house in Highland Park, where they lived for 30 years.  Fred retired from programming and worked in real estate for Baird & Warner in Highland Park.        

Fred was a lifelong fan of the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears. He enjoyed playing golf, sailing, and hiking. He was especially proud of reaching the summit of Longs Peak in Rocky Mountain National Park.  As a youngster, Fred ran in the Junior Olympics in Chicago and was thrilled when he met Jesse Owens there. 

After visiting Door County for many years, Fred and Naomi made Sister Bay their home when they retired in 2004.

Fred is survived by his wife, Naomi; daughter, Laura (Ray) Dickens of Chicago, IL; two sisters, Ruth (David) Lindgren of Carmichael, CA, Marianne (the late Daniel) Celce-Murcia of Venice, CA; and niece, Caroline Murcia also of Venice, CA.

If desired, memorial contributions may be given to the Sister Bay Moravian Church or the Liberty Grove Historical Society.  Private family services will be held, and burial will be at Little Sister Cemetery. 

Casperson Funeral Home in Sister Bay is assisting the family. Sign online guestbook and offer condolences at www.caspersonfuneralhome.com.