John Russell Burnett

John Russell Burnett, 77, of Newburgh Indiana passed away November 3,2023, after a long battle with cancer. John was born April 27, 1946, in Beverly, Massachusetts to the late John and Helen Burnett. John is survived by his wife, Sally Burnett of Newburgh Indiana and son and daughter-in-law, Ryan and Heather Burnett of Kalamazoo, MI.

John enjoyed all the outdoor activities that come with living in New England as a child including hockey, skiing, the ocean, and boating. After finishing high school, he enlisted in the Marines and served his 4 years as a Paratrooper and traveled the world. He also served in Vietnam on the front lines. After his service ended, he returned to his hometown where he met his future wife, Sally.

They met through mutual friends while on a ski trip to Vermont. Sally told him that she could ski but that was not the case, and this was a favorite story they both like to tell. John put himself through college at Salem State University and they were soon married during this time as well. They decided to move to Kalamazoo, MI to start their family and their new career.

John enjoyed coaching his son in sports and doing all the outdoor activities that Michigan offers. He loved taking his family on vacations and day trips to Lake Michigan. After spending around 25 years in Michigan John and Sally moved to Newburgh, IN to start the next chapter in their lives. John worked in HR and retired 10 years ago to enjoy the quiet life and spend more time with Sally and their friends. John will be missed by all and especially Sally who calls him the love of her life and her hero.

Visitation will be Saturday, November 18, 2023 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at Alexander Newburgh Chapel, 5333 State Road 261.

In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to a charity of your choice in John’s memory. Condolences may be made online at www.AlexanderNewburghChapel.com.