Mr. Philip M. Burl, 85, of Drum Street, Fort Covington, passed away on Friday, August 15, 2025. He was born on July 2, 1940, in Hogansburg, NY. Philip died from a prolonged illness, while being lovingly cared for in the home of his eldest son and daughter-in-law in Fort Covington.

He left this world to be reunited with the love of his life, Helen (Lauzon) Burl, his wife of 61 years. They were married on November 26, 1964, and remained devoted to one another until Helen’s passing on May 26, 2011.

Phil had four great loves in life: his Navy service, his work as an Ironworker, his beloved Helen, and his three sons. Any conversation with Phil would inevitably touch on these—his time aboard the USS Suribachi (AE-21), traveling with his Mohawk brothers to job sites, endless stories about hockey with his sons, and his deep, abiding love for Helen. He often shared fond memories of their first meeting, her legendary M&M cookies, and her final days.

Phil was also passionate about the American Legion Post 1418, golfing, collecting memorabilia, and spending time with "the boys at Rocket Ronnie’s." He was proud to be a graduate of the Class of 1957, the final graduating class of Bombay High School.

He is survived by his sister, Molly Legacy; his brother, Mike and Sharon Burl; and his three sons: Tony and wife, Brenda, Tracy and wife, Heather, and Thomas and wife, René. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Tera, Devon, Jessica, Danny, Sarah, Cheryl, and Korry, along with several great-grandchildren.

Phil also leaves behind many beloved Lauzon in-laws: six brothers—Harold and Emily, Paul and Dee, Robert and Ann, Carl and Mona, Michael and Kathleen, Philip and Sylvia—and six sisters: Rita and Jim, Margaret, Anne, Trudy, and Sandy. He is also remembered by a nearly uncountable number of cousins, nieces, nephews, and unforgettable friends.

Phil was predeceased by his parents, Henry and Elenor Burl; his brother, Charlie Barnes; and in-law siblings Dick Legacy, and Lauzon's Gerald, Joseph, Roger, Ronald, Donald, Theresa, Janet and Eloise.

A small celebration of life will be held at a later date (to be announced).

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to:

Fort Covington EMS Inc.


Fort Covington Fire and Rescue Department


2454 Chateaugay Street
 Fort Covington, NY 12937

We encourage all to share pictures or stories about Phil. They will be deeply appreciated and cherished.