Former Saultite, father of four, dies tragically in BC

Former Saultite Shawn Burch has died in Abbotsford, British Columbia after being struck by a car while walking on the shoulder of a road. Burch succumbed to his injuries last week in a B.C. hospital.

Former Saultite Shawn Burch has died in Abbotsford, British Columbia after being struck by a car while walking on the shoulder of a road.

Burch succumbed to his injuries last week in a B.C. hospital.

The Abbotsford News reported that he and another man were walking with their backs to traffic around 9:30 p.m. Wednesday when Burch was struck by an Oldsmobile sedan.

The driver called police and cooperated with the investigation.

Alcohol was not a factor in the collision.

The Burch family had just moved to Abbotsford, from Sault Ste. Marie one month before the crash that took the life of the father of four.

To read the original Abbotsford News article, click here.

Shawn Burch is survived by his wife Julie (Nolan) and four children, Rhylie (11), Reece (eight), Reign (six), and River (four).

The official obituary follows:

************************* BURCH, Shawn William Alexander - Tragically passed away on August 19, 2010, at the age of 30, as the result of an accident that occurred in Abbotsford, British Columbia.

Shawn, beloved husband, best friend and true soul mate to Julie.

Proud father of Rhylie, age 11, Reece, age 8, Reign, age 6 and River age 4, who will be dearly missed forever.

Cherished son of Brenda Willison and Todd Burch (Debbie).

Son-in-law of Dory Nolan-Duguay, Victor Duguay and Steve and Stephanie Nolan.

Grandson of Mildred Burch (late Jack) and Laurie Bergman (late Al Jones).

Much-loved brother to Shannon Peddle (Dennis), Morgan Mateja (Michael Mateja) and Bobbi-Jo Burch.

Brother-in-law to Debbie Millward (Chris), Jesse Nolan, Nicole and Kristine Duguay, Shayenna and Sheldon Nolan.

Special uncle of Grace, Benjamin, Christopher, Warren and Nyomie.

Shawn will be fondly remembered by many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Shawn is now at peace and his soul set free from his struggles.

A celebration of his life was held at Cultus Lake, British Columbia.

A memorial and benefit dinner in Sault Ste. Marie will be announced at a later date.