Jame’s Story

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James Lee Burkett

 formally of Omaha, Neb. passed away June11, 2011. He is survived by his wife, Linda; sons Brett of St. Petersburg, Fla., Aaron of Sarasota, Fla.; daughter, Sarah of Sarasota, Fla.; mother, Dorothy Burkett; sister, Bonnie Povondra of Omaha, Neb.; numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

James was a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corp 2nd Bn 1st Marines serving in Vietnam. He was a member of IBEW Local 22 in Omaha, Neb., and was an avid Harley Davidson rider.

Although he is no longer with us James L. Burkett has influenced every decision we make at The James Lee Burkett Memorial Foundation. We hope that his memory will continue to lead us in the direction that allows this foundation to support OUR Veterans in as many ways as possible.

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His Legacy

Almost 41 years ago, Jim ushered at our wedding. The four of us went house hunting for you, but it was Lyle and I that found our first home. We had a memorable motorcycle trip to South Dakota. Though our paths have not personally crossed in the recent years, we will always have this shared relationship. Our prayers and hearfelt sympathy are with you today. Wishing you God’s peace...Love, Edie and Lyle
— Lyle and Edith Rebhuhn
Our hearts go out to you in this sad time. We know Jim is missed greatly.
Thou we parted years back, when you moved to Florida, I have thought of Jim often. We worked together at Industrial for a number of years, probably the most enjoyable working years for me personally, because of the kind of person Jim was. If you were in, you were in! I will always, throughout my life, cherish those times, and the motorcycle rides to Pacific Junction on Saturday mornings. Thanks for the memories Jimmy!!!
— Dan Casebeer
Dear Linda, Sarah, Brett, and Aaron,
I am sorry to hear about your dad. He was such a great guy and so well loved by everyone that met him or knew him. He always made us laugh or feel good about ourself!
— Theresa Kelner June 20, 2011
GOOD MORNING MARINE! I would hear Jim coming down the hall to my desk, to hear him belt it out in a loud voice you would think he was ten feet tall. Well I guess since you are the boot in heaven old Chesty must have you on fire watch. We will all feel safer knowing you are watching over us. Every 10 November will always have a more important meaning to me now. You are missed. Semper Fi.
— Terry Hunter June 17, 2011
To Jim’s family,
I wanted to let you know how very saddened I am that Jim has left us. He will truly be missed by all.

He has been my friend for 17 years. We met while riding with the Sarasota Hog group and have kept in touch over the years. In the past couple of years, he and Larry had often asked me to join them on their weekend rides as well as venture out on the boat. I will certainly miss our weekend travels to The River Roo, Rivers Edge and Marina Jacks. I have many fond memories of Jim and will especially miss his big bear hugs. He was always laughing, smiling and would do anything for you. I have never met such a caring and thoughtful man.

Rest in peace Jim and continue the ride. We will all meet up with you in the end.
Forever and Always, amen……
— Debbie Bowers
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Help for Veterans should be an easy decision, these are the men and women who protected our rights to a free country. The time to say “thank you” is now. A small donation can make all the difference in the world to America’s Veterans. Start today with a donation.

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