FORMER HATTER HARRY GEORGE BURR PASSED AWAY AT AGE 97

Harry George Burr of Dallas passed away on May 20, 2009 at Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas. Burr was a legendary in the Headwear industry – at Byer-Rolnick, Resistol and Stetson. We also heard he was one of the real "gentleman" of the industry.

Harry was born February 19, 1912 in Montreal, Canada to Alfred and Faye Burr. He attended the University of Texas at Austin and graduated with a degree in Engineering from SMU where he lettered in track.

After graduation, he joined the Byer-Rolnick Hat Company in 1938 as a salesman and was promoted to VP and General Sales Manager. While serving in these positions, he presented Resistol Hats to dignitaries, such as Lyndon B. Johnson, Jimmy Carter, Bob Hope, Byron Nelson, Trammell Crow and Tom Landry.

Harry's great sales efforts led to the company being acquired by Levi Strauss. After retiring from Byer-Rolnick, Harry joined the John B. Stetson Company in 1985 as Chairman of the Stetson Hat Company Division.

During these years he also served as President of the Southwestern Men and Boys Apparel Club and President of the National Association of Men and Boys Apparel Club. Harry worked closely with developer Trammel Crow in bringing these organizations to the Apparel Mart, which was instrumental in the success of the Apparel Mart of Dallas for years.

Harry is survived by sister Rose Burr Rolnick and his wife of almost 56 years, Ruth Harper Burr, daughters and son-in-laws, John and Debbie Evans, Mike and Wendy Gaule, and Jan Burr, grandchildren, Hayley Evans, Preston Evans, Jenna Gaule and Griffin Gaule and favorite dog Emma.

Harry was loved by many close friends and family for his great sense of humor, his stories of his wonderful life and his infectious laugh.

Harry lived a vivacious life and was only sick in his last days. In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation can be made to Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children, 2222 Welborn, Dallas, TX 75219.