‘A Cherished Friend’

A LARGE SIGN denotes the newly dedicated Mike Burch Gymnasium at Lylburn Downing Middle School. (Anneliese Schneider photo)

LDMS Gym Dedicated To Mike Burch

“The void left by Mike’s passing is immeasurable. He was not just a teacher and college, but a cherished friend,” said Karen Doyle, Lylburn Downing Middle School music teacher, at the dedication ceremony of the Mike Burch Gymnasium last week.

“The dedication of this gym in his honor will serve a lasting tribute to his legacy, and the indelible mark he left on our school,” she said.

Community members, family, and Lexington City Schools teachers and staff gathered in Lylburn Downing Middle School’s gym Tuesday, June 4, to celebrate its dedication in memory of Burch.

Burch, a longtime physical education teacher and coach at the middle school, died last year.

Speakers last week highlighted Burch’s contributions both in and out of the gym.

“I have been teaching music at LDMS for three decades, and during that time, Mike’s presence made a significant impact on our community,” said Doyle. “He swiftly became an integral part of our team, always striving to enhance our students’ athletic abilities.

“Mike’s dedication to coaching extended beyond the court. He was a mentor that instilled valuable lessons of teamwork and perseverance,” she said.

“His unwavering support extended to all student athletes, including my own children, who he cheered on enthusiastically at sports games.”

Doyle also recounted Burch’s positive contributions to the school’s overall climate.

“Beyond coaching, Mike was known for his kindness. One of my favorite Mike-isms is ‘It’s a good day to have a good day.’ He possessed an innate ability to uplift those around him, and foster a sense of camaraderie among the staff,” she said.

“Whether hosting gatherings at his home or simply checking in with colleagues, Mike exhibited the spirit of community at LDMS.”

Michael Saunders, member of the Lexington School Board, also spoke at the ceremony, recalling Burch’s impact in the lives of his children.

“I asked my kiddos, the first thing you remember about Mr. Burch. They said he engaged with us. They didn’t respect him out of fear they would get in trouble.

“Mike was known for saying, ‘It doesn’t hurt to be nice,’” said Saunders. “What’s the nicest thing someone can do for you?

“If you love my kids, that’s the greatest thing you can do for me.”

Chad Coffey, Burch’s nephew and director of the Rockbridge Area Recreation Organization, spoke of his legacy.

“We’re in Mike’s element,” he said. “We’re here standing in all that Mike loved.”

Coffey recalled Burch’s passion for food and music, as well as his support for Coffey’s own career in education. But most of all, he remembered his uncle’s love for people.

“The crazy thing is, not everyone here was necessarily blood related to Mike, but we’re all in this room today because I would be willing to bet that every single person could call Mike family,” he said.

“To someone that cared about people as much as Mike did, and particularly young lives, making a difference in young people’s lives — getting ready for today, I tried to think of a better way we could recognize a PE teacher/coach, and I couldn’t do it,” said Coffey.

“His legacy will forever live on in the Mike Burch gymnasium.”