John M Burks

John Michael Burks passed away early Friday morning, September 26, 2014 at the age of 65 after a long and courageous battle with cancer. He was born May 16, 1949 in Weaverville, California to John Leslie Burks and Geneva Mae Knoles.

He grew up in the Grants Pass area. He served honorably in the Army for 3 years including a tour of duty in Vietnam. He retired from the Bureau of Land Management in 2009 after 30 years of service, the last 5 years as Supervisor.

John was an avid golfer for many years. He also loved to go hunting and fishing including stream and deep sea fishing. John was a long time Bronco's fan. John was a man of few words but he had a genuine, loving heart. Little children and animals always gravitated towards John. He loved to go on long walks until cancer made that impossible.

John is survived by his wife Dallas, daughter Michelle Largay (Angel), step-sons Jeff and Robert Rieger, Grandsons Travis and Todd Burks, daughter-in-law Nancy Burks, step-grandsons Joshua and Matthew Rieger, sisters Sue Scott, Cheryl Elsbury, Joyce Burks, brothers Jesse and Tim Burks and several nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his son John Michael Burks, Jr. and his Mother and Father.

A Graveside service with Military Honors will be held Friday, October 3 at 1:30 p.m. at Belcrest Memorial Park followed by a Celebration of Life at Holy Cross Lutheran Church. In Lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Vietnam Veterans of America. John is in the care of Howell Edwards Doerksen Funeral Directors.