WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
God gently called Gordon A Burkett Jr home during the early hours of Wednesday, July 31, 2024 while he slept. The last words he heard were from his beloved wife, “Goodnight honey, I love you”, and that proclamation was sealed with a kiss. This was their nightly routine.
Gordon was born in Kalamazoo on December 9, 1950 to Gordon Sr. and Anna Burkett who both precede him in death. Gordon graduated from Kalamazoo Central in 1969 then immediately enlisted into the Air Force where he served his country for 4 years. Once home from the service, he met the love of his life, Minnie Blair, while attending the 1st Church of the Nazarene (now Cross Community Church of the Nazarene) in Portage, and they were united in marriage on September 14, 1973. They were blessed with two sons whom they adore, Scott and Benjamin. Sadly, they lost Benjamin due to a car accident in 2009. Later Gordon was preceded in death by his sister Patricia Meadows and his brother Edward Burkett. Surviving is his sister Dianna DeVisser (James) of Kalamazoo, along with many nieces and nephews.
Gordon enjoyed being an ironworker and once Scott was old enough, he joined his father. Gordon was proud of Scott’s dedication to hard work and being able to work together up until his retirement in 2013. After retirement they always found odd jobs to complete with each other’s help. You could hear the two of them laughing and joking back and forth as they worked on the projects in the garage. Gordon and Minnie also spent many hours golfing and being with each other wherever life’s journey took them such as trips to Missouri to visit family where Minnie grew up.
Visitation will be at the Eickhoff Funeral Home (311 W Main St Mendon MI 49072) on Sunday, August 4, 2024 from 2 until 4pm. Gordon’s celebration of life will be held at Mt. Ever-Rest Memorial Park Chapel (3941 S. Westnedge Ave. Portage 49008) on Monday, August 5, 2024 at 2pm with Pastor Scott Seelhoff officiating; followed immediately by a graveside military service. Donations made in Gordon’s name may be directed to your local veteran’s affairs office, legion, or post. Condolences may be expressed to the family at eickhofffuneralhome.com
