William E. Burroughs,

Age 80 of West Elmira, NY, passed away peacefully on Thursday November 27, 2008 at home after an extended illness with cancer. Bill was born October 21, 1928 in Piper City, IL, son of the late William and Agnes Burroughs. He was also pre-dececeased by his loving daughter, Susan Jane Cesari (2002). Sister, Shirley Bagby, and brother Kaywin Burroughs, both of Peoria, IL. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 56 years, Maxine Roberts Burroughs, son William E. Burroughs IV and daughter-in-law, Chloe Stannard of Colorado Springs, CO, along with three daughters, Rebecca, Brianna, and Alyssa. He is also survived by his caring son-in-law Andrew P. Cesari DDS of Elmira, along with his three children, Michael, and Anthony, of NY City, and Gina of Chicago, IL. Bill is also survived by sister Arlene Rustman of Pekin, IL, and special friends Dick and Virginia Horchler of Seven Lakes, N.C. Bill graduated from Bradley University in Peoria, IL in 1953 with a degree in Business Administration and received an ROTC commission in the US Air Force, where he served two years active duty in Germany and four years in the reserve. Following in a family tradition at the age of 18, Bill began a 40-year career in the Railroad Industry, retiring in 1987 as District Sales Manager for Con Rail. He loved the railroad business.Bill was a long time member of North Presbyterian Church serving on numerous committees and was instrumental in founding the Men's Breakfast Group and for many years provided the inspiration for their discussions. After retiring Bill became an active member of The Elmira Kiwanis Club; and being an outdoorsman loved the natural beauty of the Twin Tiers, enjoying golfing, hunting, fishing, and working in his garden. In addition, Bill spent many hours reading.Family and friends will be received at the Olthof Funeral Home, Inc 1050 Pennsylvania Avenue. Southport/Elmira on Saturday November 29, 2008 from 2:00 to 5:00 PM. A Memorial Service will be held on Sunday November 30, at 2:00 PM in the North Presbyterian Church, 921 College Avenue Elmira, NY, Reverend Gary Chorpenning will officiate. A private burial will take place later in St. Peter & Paul's Cemetery, Elmira, NY.In lieu of flowers, contributions in Bill's memory may be made to Southern Tier Hospice and Palliative Care, 11751 E. Corning Road, Corning, NY 14830 or the North Presbyterian Church Food Pantry, 921 College Avenue, Elmira, NY.The family wishes to thank Hospice for the compassionate care provided to Bill these past several weeks, with a special thanks to Debbie, Mary Ann, Lori, and Carolyn.A "Candle of Remembrance" may be left for the family in Obituaries at www.olthof.com.