Gary Michael “Big Mike” Burkland, 71, of Fredonia, died unexpectedly at home on Thursday June 10, 2021. Mike was born May 1, 1950, the son of the late George and Doris Burkland. Mike grew up in Silver Creek and graduated from Silver Creek High School. After graduating from Arkansas College in 1972, Mike went into the insurance business with his father, George Burkland, at Record Insurance Co. in Silver Creek. The business was sold in the 1980’s and Mike went into sales for Merritt Winery, where remained until his passing. Big Mike was an avid Buffalo Bills fan! He attended all 4 of their Super Bowl the Bills played and has been a longtime season ticket holder. He was also a big Buffalo Sabers fan. Mike was a member of the Conservation Club, Lakeside Club, and Moose Club, among others. He enjoyed playing golf and riding ATV’s on the beach with friends. Everyone who knew him will miss him for sure.

Mike is survived by his sister, Nancy (Fred) Wurst, of Alpharetta, Ga; a niece, Ashley (Mike) Barba, a nephew Zachary (Katie) Burkland; a great-niece Emma Barba and great-nephew Mason Burkland. Besides his parents, Mike is predeceased by his brother, Stephen Burkland.

Calling hours are Tuesday from 10 am-12 noon at the LARSON-TIMKO Funeral Home, 20 Central Avenue, Fredonia, where a funeral service will follow at 12 noon. On-line tributes may be made at larsontimkofuneralhome.com. Arrangements by David J. Dengler, LARSON-TIMKO Funeral Home.