About Buddy Burniske

R.W. “Buddy” Burniske, PhD was a tenured Associate Professor at the University of Hawaii at Manoa College of Education, Department of Learning Design and Technology. Buddy influenced thousands of people around the world through his classroom teaching, global presentations, and published works.

Buddy passed away April 20, 2006, after an 18-month struggle with cancer.

Buddy’s family shared some wonderful photos and videos. If you have media or stories to share, post to the Buddy Burniske Memorial group on Facebook.

Head and shoulders shot of Buddy
Buddy at Taj Mahal
On teaching assignment with the World Bank, 2004
Buddy golfing
Continuing to play in 2005
Buddy with family
with family

Videos

Running Downhill: An essay written by Buddy, narrated by his two sons

Keep It Simple: Many of Buddy’s joys in life were the simple things

Want to Sing Out: Video clips of Buddy playing with his children

Aloha from Buddy's Wife, Jackie

Aloha Family and Friends,

I feel Buddy’s absence everyday, and that will always remain. But also, he is by my side and in my heart. I miss him. Buddy had a lot more to offer this world, and to share with our family, but now he is gone…and missed by many.

We scattered Buddy’s ashes from the Makani Catamaran in Kewalo Basin, Oahu on July 1, 2006. Family and friends from across the world spent time with us in Honolulu and made it a very special and unforgettable week.

Throughout the summer, friends and family joined Justin, Christopher and I on many hikes, where we reminisced and shared stories, marveling at the beauty of Hawaii, and missing the extraordinary man that brought us here.

Most of you knew Buddy as a dedicated and spirited professional, and those same qualities imbued his family life as well.

Although I did not ever think Buddy would be tragically gone at the age of 46, I feel so fortunate and blessed in so many ways. Buddy and I shared more love and adventures in 25+ years, than most people have in a lifetime. We were immersed in romance and romantic settings throughout our marriage.

Buddy sought out remarkable adventures for us: honeymooning in Greece, Israel and Egypt; horseback riding adjacent to the Pyramids of Giza; climbing the path of Moses in the Sinai Desert; snorkeling in the Red Sea (and that was just our first year of marriage!) Buddy was always planning our next trip, our next adventure, our next sunset or full moon rise to celebrate and drink in. Now, I have many dear and treasured memories to reflect upon, and I have two remarkably sensitive and loving sons.

Justin is back at the University of Texas, finishing work toward his degree to graduate in May, Christopher is in his junior year at Punahou School, and I continue to work at Pacific Resources for Education and Learning (PREL).

Thank you to the friends and family who have made donations not only to the Burniske Memorial Fund, but also to nature and educational funds in Buddy’s name.

It is time for me to end this message thanking all of the many friends and family from around the world who continue to send us letters and email. I appreciate all of the love and support.

As Buddy would say, “Carpe diem’, seize the day! Enjoy a sunset, a moon rise, a hike in the woods, a glass of champagne, and do it in honor of Buddy.

Love, Jackie

September 2006