O.D. Burright, born on March 12, 1933 in Logan County, Oklahoma, was the third of four siblings; one brother and two sisters of Orrin and Mabel Burright. In 1940 the Burright family moved to Portland, Oregon from Oklahoma. In 1962 O.D. moved his family to Marysville, Washington just off of Firetrail Road.

During a routine physical examination in 2000 O.D. was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a blood cancer. After being diagnosed and facing a prognosis of only a few months to live, O.D. got a second opinion, underwent chemotherapy, radiation and a stem cell transplant that his oncologist recommended. But, in time, realizing that only traditional treatments could not stave off the cancer; he and his son did extensive research and developed a recipe for survival — dietary changes, an exercise regimen, and better management of stress, to weaken the cancer. He beat the odds of having a disease that, for many other people, has taken their lives much earlier. He fought a courageous 12 ½ -year battle against cancer before it finally claimed him at home on Monday, November 26th in Vancouver, Washington.

“He was such an amazing guy,” said his son, Mark. “He was so caring and that came across with other cancer patients and the cancer community. He was one of those healing individuals that are almost impossible to be in a room with and not come away without feeling better. He had an amazing impact on people”.

He loved his 1969 Chevy Impala, NASCAR, and was Greg Biffle’s biggest fan. Watching Greg race his #16 the past 12 years was an important part of O.D.’s therapy. He never missed a race.

O.D is survived by his wife of 60 years, Darlene, a sister Illa Faye, his son, Mark, a grandson Jeffrey, and a great grandson, Tigran.

Contributions in O.D.’s memory may be given to Help4Cancer.net at 1400 NE 136th Avenue, Vancouver, WA. 98684.