Chris M. Burritt had taught image design and lighting as a part-time faculty member of Columbia College for a decade while he remained in demand as a producer, director and cameraman of commercials, documentaries and corporate films.
Mr. Burritt, 59, died Jan. 7 of asymptomatic stomach and liver cancer at Loyola University Medical Center a week after he was diagnosed.
“Chris Burritt was one of the most dedicated and capable teachers I have ever met, and that’s in any context and in any country,” said Bruce Sheridan, chairman, Film & Video Department.
“He approached everything in a positive manner and put the learning of his students above all else.
“Chris was a solutions person. While others might see the problems just as quickly as Chris, nobody was more disposed to turn every challenge into an opportunity.
In our capacities as Union Representative and Department Chair we established a rapport seldom, if ever, realized in the workplace.”
A 1970 Columbia College graduate, Mr. Burritt began his career at Catholic Television Network of Chicago as film production supervisor and director.
After Catholic Television closed in the early 1980s, Mr. Burritt worked steadily as a freelance filmmaker, winning many awards in the process.
He was able to enjoy many of his broad interests that included car racing, history, railroads and ocean liners, by working on films on those areas.
His love of car racing was indulged when he was associate producer and crew supervisor for 14 specials on the Indianapolis 500 Race. He also produced documentaries for
His study of locomotives and American railcars particularly Western railroad lines resulted in hundreds of his stills appearing in numerous books, calendars and publications. The book, “Trains of America,” include 130 of his credited color photos.
He also was an active member of Columbia Yacht Club and had served as Bar and Grill Committee chairman for seven years.
“Chris was a wonderful guy,” said fellow cameraman and Columbia instructor Steve Golden. “He was always so helpful to everyone, students, faculty, his friends, the people at the yacht club. He would do anything for you.”
Mr. Burritt is survived by his wife, Susan, Media Relations Director for the Archdiocese of Chicago, his brother Col. Richard Burritt, (Ret.), sisters Dr. Mary F. Burritt, Penny Bollero and four nieces and nephews.
Donations in Mr. Burritt’s name may be sent to Kim Clement, Columbia College, 600 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, 60605; phone, 312/344-7804. Also to Dept. of Pastoral Care and Education, Loyola University Health System, 2160 S. First Ave., Maywood, 60153, 708-216-9056.
