John Alan Buria

John Alan Buria, 65, of Duluth, passed away unexpectedly in his home Monday, February 6, 2017. He was born June 4, 1951, to William "Bill" and Gertrude "Gertie" Buria of Mt. Iron, MN. He graduated from Mt. Iron in 1969 and married the love of his life, Alice (Webb), August 1970. Together they formed an inseparable bond and conquered many challenges. John attended Mesabi Community College and Hibbing School of Nursing while working at Vidmar's Iron Works and the family's Sinclair gas station in Mt. Iron. Once he obtained his degree, the family moved to Rochester where he worked as an RN before eventually returning to the Range and Hibbing Anesthesia School. After graduation, he was hired as an Anesthetist at St. Mary's Hospital in Duluth where he was instrumental in the development of the anesthesia program for heart surgery. His skills then allowed him the opportunity to be a partner at Lakewalk Surgery Center until his retirement several years ago. Being dedicated to his craft and helping others, he continued to work on a locums basis at Hibbing, Virginia and Cook Hospitals. John had a love of learning and strove to excel at everything he tried. For his athletic commitment, he was inducted into the Mt. Iron Football Hall of Fame. He also had passions for cooking and sharing time making family recipes, woodturning, gardening, and had become a Master Gardener. John was a 20 year cancer survivor but always remained stoic through the treatments and ever-lasting side effects. Family was his pride and joy, and it was not unusual for him to share their accomplishments. He supported his family's endeavors through attendance at every athletic and music event, and he was a Scout leader for 15+ years. He will be deeply missed and remembered for his strong yet quiet presence. John was preceded in death by his parents. John is survived by his wife, Alice; daughter, Michelle (Dave Lambert) Buria; son, Chris (Megan TeBrake) Buria; granddaughters, Briana Anderson and Baby Girl Buria due May 2017; 7 brothers and sisters and their spouses; a brother-in-law; and numerous nieces and nephews. VISITATION: 11 am Saturday, February 11th at Sunrise Funeral Home, 4798 Miller Trunk Hwy, Hermantown, with a Celebration of Life to follow at noon. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Tischer Creek Garden Club, part of the Duluth Garden Flower Society, at 434 W. Anoka St. Duluth, MN 55803.

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