Michael Alan Burlew

Michael Alan Burlew, 74, of Harrisburg, passed away on March 8, 2025 at Penn State Health Rehabilitation Hospital from complications of ALS. He bravely fought the disease for four years, continuing to touch lives and make new friends until the moment Jesus guided him Home.

Mike was born in Lewistown, on Oct. 23, 1950 to W. Forrest Burlew (deceased) and Evelyn (Flegal) Burlew (deceased), joining an older sister, Florence (Burlew) Duttera III (deceased). He graduated from Lewistown High School in 1968 and attended Juniata College. Mike later moved to Harrisburg and began a successful career in finance and banking, traveling extensively across the United States for years and building many meaningful relationships.

In 1974, Mike married the love of his life, Lora Ann (Zerby) Burlew. They joyfully celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 2024 with their two children: Kristina (Burlew) Pae of Etters (and husband Dan Pae); Douglas Burlew of Harrisburg (and wife Erin (Grady) Burlew); and grandchildren, James Pae (12), John Burlew (10), David Pae (10), and Eleanor Burlew (8).

To those who knew him, Mike was a force of nature and a man of the people, with many interests. He often said how much he appreciated having “the most wonderful and welcoming in-laws and extended family,” who became his own family. A man who loved Yocco’s Hot Dogs, Marie Sharp’s hot sauce (on everything), Hartley’s Potato Chips, and cocktail peanuts, he will never be forgotten by those whose lives he touched.

Mike was a passionate Penn State football fan who held season tickets for nearly 40 years with his wife and later, his children. Also known as “The King,” Mike held court every Saturday in the fall, hosting elaborate tailgates in State College with friends. Even in his twilight years, he amazed his family with his mental catalogue of Penn State game statistics.

Mike was also a lifelong fan of all types of racing, especially local dirt track racing, and was the pit crew “gear man” for his neighbor’s race car. He had many fond memories of late nights spent with friends at Port Royal, Lincoln, Silver Spring, and Williams Grove Speedways.

A lover of the outdoors, Mike spent hours working in his large garden and mowing on his John Deere tractor, Old Milwaukee beer in hand. He was a hunter and he also enjoyed fishing locally and in Canada with his son and other treasured friends.

Not surprising, Mike was also an avid camper who cherished many family vacations at Frontier Town Campground near Ocean City, Md., and later, Gulls Way Campground in Dagsboro, Del., with relaxing days reading on the beach at Assateague Island National Seashore. He also loved the mountains, especially Bald Eagle State Forest, and time spent at R&R Camp near his hometown.

Mike also had a passion for music, playing piano and guitar. In his teenage years, he was the keyboardist in a rock and roll band, The Baron’s. A classic rock aficionado, he attended many concerts and rarely missed the annual homegrown folk festival put on by friends, where his children performed.

Even with so many interests and friends, Mike cherished family time more than anything. He was happiest being Poppi to his four grandchildren. Watching them grow was his greatest joy.

A “Memorial Tailgate” celebration of life will be held this summer, date to be determined.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the ALS Association (als.org), the Melanoma Research Foundation (melanoma.org), or the National MS Society (https://events.nationalmssociety.org/participant/kspride2025), all causes meaningful to Mike and his family.

Arrangements are under the care of Hoenstine Funeral Home, 75 Logan St., Lewistown.

Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.hellerhoenstinefuneralhome.com

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