Jim Burdelski

Jim Burdelski (age 80) passed away on August 25, 2024 at his home in Santa Fe, NM. Born in Detroit, MI on June 6, 1944 to Polish immigrant parents, he attended Divine Child High School in Dearborn, MI where he met his wife Paula Andrew of 57 years. After receiving a B.A. and then an M.A. degree in special education from Eastern Michigan University,  Jim worked as a special needs counselor for disabled youth in the public school systems of Jackson, MI and then Ann Arbor. While Jim had been a successful baseball player in his school days, following college his attention and passion turned to tennis, as a player, fan, tennis parent, and doubles partner to many, competing in (and winning numerous times) Ann Arbor city tournaments over the years. During his tenure in the Ann Arbor public schools, Jim also served as the boy’s head tennis coach at Huron High School, where he guided the team to a state championship in 1996 and to runner-up finishes five times. In recognition of his efforts, he was awarded the Michigan High School Athletic Association Coach of the Year during the championship year. Soon after his retirement from work and coaching, in 2002 he and Paula relocated to Santa Fe, where he renewed his love of music by spending hours at his beloved piano, continued to play tennis, and dedicated himself to an array of other sporting activities, including skiing, road biking, and hiking. One of his many personal achievements was completing the 100-mile Santa Fe Century several times. He relished the laid-back lifestyle in Santa Fe, the cuisine of Northern New Mexico, its arts and performances, and the wonderful people who made it all possible. He is survived by his wife Paula, son Matt, and daughter Julie. A private celebration of Jim’s life was held at his home among his immediate family members. The three of us, Matt, Julie and Paula, would like to express our gratitude to friends and family members across the U.S. who conveyed kind words and touching thoughts about the positive impact Jim had on our lives. He was loved and will be dearly missed.