Dr. Earl Burgner was an outstanding leader and quarterback, playing on three undefeated teams in his years at Wittenberg.

"Puss" as he was normally referred to, served as a team captain his senior season, playing 60 minutes of every game. He was twice an All-Ohio Conference selection and was named All-Ohio quarterback in 1919 while at Wittenberg, where he also played basketball and was a member of the Alpha Tau Omega social fraternity.

Burgner, an Akron, Ohio native and graduate of South High School, later began coaching and teaching at nearby Xenia High School. He also played professionally for the Dayton Triangles.

Burgner was inducted into the Summit County Hall of Fame in 1968. In 1966, he received the Alumni Citation as one who "brought honor to Wittenberg by continuing dedication to the ideals for which the University stands."

Burgner graduated from Marquette Medical School in 1933 and served his community as a general practitioner for almost 40 years. He served in World War II attaining the rank of lieutenant colonel and was commanding officer of various Air Force Evacuation Hospitals.

Burgner died January 11, 1970.
Burgner's grandson, David Samuelson, will present his grandfather for induction.

To view plaque in larger size, click here.