Walter Edwin Burlage III, 67, of Lake City went to be with our Lord on September 13, 2015.  He was born in Allen Park, MI.  After graduating Allen Park High school, he received his undergraduate degree from Wayne State University. He proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1970-1976 while continuing his education.  Walter earned his Masters in Mathematics at Western Michigan University.  He was a lifelong educator, who taught at Gateway College and finally at Lake City Correctional (CCA).  He was a beloved member of St James Episcopal Church where he served as a layperson and was an active member of the choir.  His passion was serving the Lord and sharing the Gospel with those who are incarcerated. His hobbies included photography, sailing and birdwatching.

Survivors include his loving wife of 36 years, Judith (Root-Peppler); His sons, Bart Peppler (Denise) of Elkridge, MD; Jay (Caron) of Ann Arbor, MI; and Graham (Ashley) of Grand Rapids, MI; daughters, Alison of Nashville, TN; and Meredith of Jacksonville, FL.  Sisters Roberta of Livonia, MI and Joanne (Tony) of LaPeer, MI and brother, Bill (Gin) of Ft. Pierce, FL. Adored granddaughters Lauren Schwarz of Nashville, TN; and Ashley Wilson of Philadelphia, PA.

Memorial services will be conducted at 3:00 pm Friday, September 18, 2015 at St James' Episcopal Church with Father Douglas Hodsdon officiating.  A reception will immediately follow the service in the church fellowship hall.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St James Memorial Fund (in Walter's name), 2397 SW Bascom Norris Road, Lake City, FL 32025 Arrangements are under the direction of GATEWAY-FORSET LAWN FUNERAL HOME, 3596 S. Us Hwy 441, Lake City, Fl., 32025, (386) 752-1954. Please leave words of love and comfort for the family at www.gatewayforestlawn.com