Melvin Van Akin Burd, 101, formerly of Flint, died peacefully on November 7, 2015 at his home in Cortland, New York after a happy and productive life. He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 57 years, Julia Ella Robinson Burd of Flint in 2000. He was born April 19, 1914 in Miami, Florida, son of Melvin Sorrel and Elizabeth Van Akin Burd. He spent his youth in Flint, graduating from Northern High School in 1928 where he was in many activities, also writing a radio drama. After school he and two friends would perform "Tommy, Henry, and Mary" at station WFDF in Flint. He and his wife Julia taught at Whittier Junior High School in Flint, then moved to Cortland, New York in 1951. Dr. Burd, Professor Emeritus, was a member of the Department of English at SUNY Cortland from 1951 until retirement in 1979. He was the first named Distinguished Professor at Cortland. His teaching interests were nineteenth century British and American literature. Van's life was punctuated with Naval service. He was part of the invasion forces of the island of Okinawa, south of Japan, playing a significant role in organizing village schools and government. Lieutenant Commander Burd retired after twenty years from a Naval Reserve unit in Cortland formed by him and others. After attending Flint Junior College, he graduated from the University of Chicago, received a master's degree from Stanford and a doctorate from the University of Michigan. His passion for research related to the nineteenth century writer John Ruskin led to five books, many articles, and lectures into his late nineties. His contributions have earned him international respect. His wife Julia was a helpful and enthusiastic companion on many trips to Europe for research. Van felt his many friends and his beloved family led to his longevity. He is survived by daughter, granddaughter, and four great-grandchildren; his sister Elizabeth (Burd) Sitts of Michigan and her four children; and by grand and great-grand nephews and nieces; first cousin Robert Gibbs of Michigan and his family were great favorites. Van was predeceased by his sister Margaret Ann Burd. Burial took place at the family gravesite in Vernon, Michigan. Memorial contributions may be designated for the Julia Robinson Burd '31 Memorial Fellowship at Albion College, via checks to Albion College, mailed to 611 East Porter St., Albion, MI 49224; memo line Julia Robinson Burd Fellowship. to offer online condolences, visit www.wright-beard.com Wright-Beard Funeral Home inc