Burton Fain, 89

EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. –Burton Fain passed away May 31 with his family at his side. Born in Providence, he was the beloved husband of Lois (Jagolinzer) Fain, brother of the late Robert Fain, and the devoted son of the late Florence and Harry Fain.

He graduated from Brown University class of 1947 with a degree in mechanical engineering. He interrupted his college education to serve in the Army Air Corps during WWII. After serving as vice president of Walco Electric Company for 20 years, he established his own company, Burton Industries, a manufacturer of electronic motors, drives and controls. As president, he expanded business internationally and oversaw plants in Rhode Island, Connecticut and North Carolina.  The company designed and built the motor drive system for a new steel rolling mill in China, which at the time was the fastest in the world. After selling Burton Industries, he worked in sales and consulting at Safe-Way Electric Motor Company until recently. Many former employees have expressed appreciation for his encouragement and mentoring, helping them to establish their own successful businesses.

He was a past president of the American Institute of Plant Engineers. He was a board member at St. Dunstan’s School and Mount Hope Day Care Center. He was a member of Temple Beth-El and was a supporter of the annual Jagolinzer Concert at Brown University and an avid supporter of Camp Dotty, a camp for children with cancer. His wife Lois Fain and her sister Marion Goldsmith founded the camp in memory of his beloved niece Dorothy Goldsmith Jansma.

Besides his wife, he is survived by a daughter, Debra Fain and her late husband Paul Murphy, a son, Frederick Fain, and grandchildren Michael Fain, Grant Rodgers, and Brittany Harrison Rodgers. He also leaves many cherished nephews and nieces.  He and  his wife enjoyed travelling the world, eating Chinese food, spending winters in Florida, playing Gin Rummy and being with friends and family. They celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary on May 28.

Donations may be made to the Leslie Yale Gutterman Religious School Endowment or the charity of your choice.