Lenwill Fredrick "Ricky" Burmester, Jr., 75, of Cincinnatus, NY, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at the Guthrie Cortland Regional Medical Center, Cortland, NY, after becoming ill at home.

Ricky was born in Queens, NY, on July 14, 1951, the son of the late Lenwill Burmester, Sr. and Mary Alt Burmester Moore. Ricky's vibrant spirit and deep sense of duty shaped a life of dedicated service, unwavering love, and boundless generosity.

Ricky was a proud 1970 graduate of Cincinnatus Central School, laying a foundation of hard work and learning that would continue to serve him throughout his life. Shortly thereafter, he answered the call to serve his country and became a proud veteran of the U.S. Air Force, where he earned an honorable discharge. The discipline, honor, and camaraderie he experienced during his military service became cornerstones of his character and were evident in all he did.

His career took him to the heart of New York City, where he served the community as a member of the FDNY as he followed his grandfather and joined his four uncles. From September 1, 1978, until September 27, 2002, Ricky served with courage and distinction, culminating with his response to the World Trade Center on 9/11, leading his men safely home as their Lieutenant. His unwavering commitment to protecting others left a lasting impression on those who served alongside him and those whom he helped during times of greatest need.

Though his professional achievements were many, Ricky was a farmer at heart. The fields and pastures of Dutch Hill Road called to him, and he found true joy working on his tractors, mowing fields, and tending the land that became the Burmester Farm. This connection to the earth was matched only by his connection to people. Ricky delighted in spending time with others, sharing stories, laughter, and warmth. Nothing mattered more to him than the love he had for his family.

Ricky is survived by his wife, Yoomi An Burmester of Bayside, NY; two sons, Lenwill “Lenny” (Erin) Burmester III of Whitestone, NY and Brett (Carla) Burmester of Bayside, NY, who carry forward his legacy of integrity and kindness. His cherished grandchildren—Lenwill “Will” Burmester IV, Cole Burmester, Madalyn Burmester, Vanneza Bobadilla, Jaela Burmester, Ashley Burmester, and Ruby Burmester—were a constant source of pride and happiness, each of them touched by his patient guidance and abundant affection. Ricky is also survived by his loving sister, Cynthia (Tim) Byers.

He is preceded in death by his parents, as well as two sisters, Donna Maroney and Lenora Burmester. Their memories held a special place in Ricky’s heart, and he often spoke fondly of their time together.

Family and friends, and all whose lives were brightened by Ricky’s generosity and warmth are invited to gather for a period visitation on Saturday, August 29, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at K L Sharp Funeral Home, Cincinnatus, NY, followed by a closing prayer by Reverend Mark Brown. In keeping with the wishes of the family, there will be no formal funeral service.

This will be a time to remember Ricky’s life, reflect on the profound impact of his many roles—protector, caretaker, friend, and confidant—and extend comfort to one another in the spirit he so effortlessly embodied.

Ricky will be remembered for his courage, work ethic, sense of humor, and above all, the immeasurable love he gave to his family. His legacy endures in the memories he created, the lessons he bestowed, and the example he set for all who knew him.