We lost our dear brother, Burr Gourlie, to a sudden brain aneurism on Sept. 12, 2005. He was born Sept. 28, 1961 at Fort Lewis, Wash., and though his residence was in Bellingham, Burr was a part-time resident of Whidbey Island for 40 years.

Burr was funny, positive and generous, with many interests, including rock hounding, wood carving, and jewelry making. His greatest passions were organic gardening and beekeeping. From Burr’s beautiful garden on Swantown Road came a plethora of beautiful and sometimes unusual fruits and vegetables which he sold at the Oak Harbor Farmer’s Market on Thursdays. He was a popular vendor and always had a line of faithful customers who waited to buy his produce.

Burr’s family and friends will gather to remember Burr in Bellingham at the Fairhaven Park lower pavillion on Sunday, Oct. 2 from 2 to 5 p.m. This is an alcohol-free facility with a full kitchen, tables and chairs. People who want to bring food and home-grown produce are encouraged to do so. Children are welcome and we hope the weather will allow us to spend time outdoors.

If you want to help with set-up or clean-up, call Mark at 360-734-4746.

Burr’s friends and family can honor his memory through donations to the Oak Harbor Farmers Market or other local charities that support local organic farmers.