Roland Henry Burdge, 89, of Tacoma, Washington, passed away on August 10, 2025. He was born on October 2, 1935, in Denville, New Jersey, to Theodore and Mary Burdge.

Roland was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Doris, in 2003; his parents; his three sisters, Dorothy, Elenora, and Mary; his four brothers, Theodore Jr., Issac, Kenneth, Clayton, and John; and one grandchild.

He is survived by his five children—Roland Jr., Caroline, Melody, Donald, and Robin—as well as nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, who will carry forward his memory with love.

At the age of 18, Roland voluntarily enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving faithfully from January 4, 1954, until October 4, 1966. During his 12 years, 8 months, and 4 days of service, he completed nearly two years overseas. He was stationed in Okinawa for a year and a half beginning in September 1958, and in July 1963, he was sent on a 124-day temporary duty assignment to Wheelus Air Base in Libya for the classified "Project Short Spurt." Now declassified, this secret Cold War–era mission established a U.S. Air Force Security Service signals intelligence listening post. Roland was proud of his service and remained a patriotic American throughout his life.

After receiving an Honorable Discharge, Roland worked for the Tacoma smelter before beginning a long career with West Coast Grocers in Tacoma, where he remained until his retirement.

Roland's life was full and active. He dedicated time to volunteering for the homeless, stayed fit at the YMCA, and enjoyed playing guitar and singing—especially Elvis Presley songs. He also loved karaoke, league bowling, camping and fishing, crafts, dancing, cooking, church services and cheering on his favorite team, the Seattle Seahawks.

Roland was cremated and laid to rest alongside his wife Doris at New Tacoma Cemetery.

There will be a graveside service held on Roland and Doris's next wedding anniversary May 18th 2026 at New Tacoma Cemetery. Roland will receive Military Honors for his years of service.

He will be remembered for his kindness, his dedication to family, his joyful spirit, and the music he so loved to share.