We want to thank you for coming out to show support to Phil and Barbara Burt.  We the family could not thank everyone enough for attending the Celebration of Life.  We appreciaate everyone from Casa's to Burt Blee Dixon and Sutton to friends and family.

Ivanhoe’s visit - summer 2022. Cam, Molly (niece) Anna, Janie (sister), Ryan (grandson) and Phil

I've been battling a liver disease for some weeks before my father's passing which fatigues my body so that  I sleep most of the time and have a sort of brain fog when awake.  This has prevented me from putting into words my feelings and emotions at this time of his passing.  

I do find myself having dreams of my father.  In these dreams he is  vibrant, healthy and so very happy.  I've seen him dancing with my mother, his Beloved Barbara, along with his mother and father Gertie and Walter who loved to dance.  I awake from these dreams feeling happy for him - with a knowing that he is in a far better place now.

For the past 15 years or so, I've enjoyed an almost daily phone call with my Dad.   The call went pretty much the same each time:  " Hi Dear.  How are you?  I had a busy day at the office.  Got a lot of work done - really hustled!  It's a perfect day today - little wind, not too hot or too cold.  I was just about to put my shoes on and go for a long walk in the neighborhood.  Thanks for our call.  Hang in there!"

I find myself mentally calling my Dad, and being soothed by the thought of us having this ritualistic conversation.   My father feels like just a thought or a dream away.  How grateful I am, especially at this time of illness, for this connection to him.  So much love and appreciation for you Dad!

Your daughter, Julie

Bob, Janie and Phil at Ivanhoe's together - a few years ago

My uncle Phil was one of the most brilliant, quick-witted and teasingly loving people I've ever met. He gave me my own nickname as a kiddo and going to their house in Ft. Wayne was always a thrill for my sisters and me. The indoor pool, sauna and games made it seem like a mansion to me though Phil never acted flashy. He just wanted his kids to enjoy being home and having friends over. He was one to frequent the same ol' places (like IHOP) even when traveling and had simple needs. Barbara was equally (maybe more) brilliant than he was and a great match for him, keeping him in line as best she could when he was doing what he did best. They were both giving, loving, and kind, with their time, finances and intelligence. I will miss them both very much and admire the love that they shared and gave so freely. 

Gorgeous couple on their wedding day - the love between these two would never be questioned. 

Cute little blonde brothers - Jim and Phil Burt

The 5 Burt siblings - Cathy, Jim, Phil (and in front) Bob, Janie (my mom)

As he got older, the resemblance between my Boppa and my uncle Phil became something that made me smile. 

Phil and Barbara were the most wonderful father and mother-in-law I could have wished for.  After getting over Phil’s harassment jokes that initially made my head spin and I first had to get used to, and in the comfort of being able to have a normal conversation with Barbara (without having to wonder why I’d be called a “twit” or a “sissy”  - nouns that at the time were not in my English as a 2nd language vocabulary), I soon felt right at home in the Burt family.  We had many wonderful family events in San Diego, Fort Wayne, Lake Michigan and in Germany that I always look back to with fond memories and a smile. I’ll miss Phil and Barbara. 
Julie, Brian and Steve - my deepest sympathy for the loss of your dad.  He was an amazing, generous and truly great man – with a character, intellect and wit I have never met before. I hope we’ll be able to retain the occasional family gatherings in the future, honoring Phil and Barbara.  

Mr. Burt - I will miss seeing your smiling face in our building and your awesome sense of humor that made seeing you always such a pleasure.  You will be missed.  I am happy I was fortunate enough to have crossed your path.

Jennifer Lamb
Hanning & Bean

Phil was equal parts gracious host and benevolent jokester.  He was kind enough to invite several of his son Steve’s friends & spouses to his home for a holiday gathering a few years ago.  Phil greeted my wife Dana with a hug as she entered the house.  In true form, as I was walking in behind her, Phil commented to Dana: “I see you have come alone…mentally.”  Just a sample of microphone-drop moments from Phil over the years.  Who else could turn a telephone greeting of “you twit”  into a term of endearment? They don’t make them like Phil anymore.  One in a million.  He will truly be missed by those fortunate enough to have crossed his path or shared a laugh.

Definitely one of a kind!  I have so many fond memories and/or funny stories working with Phil Burt at the Burt Blee firm!  And of course he was always ready with a one liner or retort!    He will be missed by many.

Fond memories of working with Phil at First Federal and Standard Federal Banks. He and the other attorneys where a delight to work with. I also worked with Barbara as a member of a Community board I was on. Two exceptional people. I am a better person for have knowing them.

So sorry to see this.  Phil was truly one of a kind.  I met him years ago when I began working at my dad's business. Phil was his attorney.  Always treated us well.  And what a fun personality!  He and his wife attended my wedding and he swore he was going to wear goggles and a snorkel! I wouldn't have been surprised if he would have! The Lengacher family loved and trusted him.  He was the best.  May your memories always be sweet and may God give you all peace in the days ahead.


I met Phil Burt many years ago at Halls restaurant. My wife, Betty, and I would sit with Phil and Barb at Casa’s horseshoe bar for dinner and a glass of wine. They were a wonderful couple. In the last several years, Phil and I sat together at 8 AM mass at Saint Therese church. I always looked forward to seeing Phil at breakfast or at church. Phil was born on December 14 and was one day older than I.  Phil had a great sense of humor and was a very generous man. Phil will be greatly missed by all who knew him. 
Gary Markley



I was a student of Barbara when she became the first woman instructor at the University of Michigan Law School. The "A"  earned  from her was a high point in my checkered student career! Phil became a classmate of mine when I caught up with him via summer school classes. He was always the gentleman while also being a strong competitor who brought out the best in his colleagues. I once suggested to Phil that he didn't have to crack a book like the rest of us since he  could just go home,  talk law with Barbara at dinner, and pass any exam that might be required.  He laughed but didn't deny the possibility! Both were always a great credit to their community and will be missed. 
In memory,
Jack Hunter



Including myself as a member of the countless friends listed in the obituary.  Phil was as sincere a friend as he was funny.  Met Phil after working with his father, and he never forgot to remind me to "do something" about the rates in the banking industry.  R.I.P. 


Before my mom got sick, my dad had a big, bold, boisterous personality that lit up a room. He used humor to disarm people...and, sometimes, to keep them on their toes. Many remember (and treasure) his go-to zingers. Here's an example that every waitress at Casa or Hall's will recognize: 
• Waitress: "What would you like today, Phil?" 
• Dad: "I'd like a taller waitress, please!" 

At home, Dad would inevitably use a line like this when Mom came into the room. 
• "Oh, look, Barbara's here. Her nose arrived 5 minutes ago." 

Nose jokes were Dad's equivalent of giving Mom a kiss on the cheek. She'd scowl, roll her eyes, but you'd see the ghost of a grin dance across her lips before she told him he was obnoxious. 

Full credit to Cindi Collins of BBDS&B for coining the term "Burt-isms" for these famous (or infamous) quips. Here are few from her greatest-hits list: 
• "I've been here since 6, doing all your work." 
• "We're gonna fight this case with every dollar you've got!" 
• "You're supposed to act your age, not your IQ." 
• "There's a pathetic person contest in the lobby in 10 minutes. You're already in the finals." 

I challenge you all — family, friends, and colleagues — to contribute your favorite Burt-isms on this memorial web site. We need to preserve them for posterity!

Phil and Barb both loved spending time with the grandkids - and the feeling was mutual. They have left a big hole in our hearts 💜

This was Thanksgiving celebration 2019.  My mom passed away 2 weeks later, but Barb's smile made Phil smile.  Phil was out with my mom everyday when she resided at Sycamore.  A more doting husband never existed.

He used his legal powers for good. He was basically a law-Jedi.

What a guy! He was friendly to all and had a great sense of humor. He will be missed.  Prayers for the family. RIP Phil

There really are not adequate words…. I knew him from working downtown for years, plus many social events.  Phil was a gem.   He was kind, generous, fun, funny and a friend to everyone who met him. I’m sure that I am among hundreds of people, family, friends and mere acquaintances who knew him, well or not, who will miss him so much.  I certainly will remember him with great fondness.  He set the bar high for someone with such great integrity.  My most sincere condolences to all of his family and close friends.  He lives on through all of you. ❤️

Wir sind sehr traurig zu hören, dass Phil Burt gestorben ist. Wir haben nur gute und schöne Erinnerungen an Phil, er war ein ganz besonderer Mensch. Klug, lustig, warmherzig und großzügig. Wir haben mit Phil  bei seinen Besuchen in Deutschland und den Treffen der Familie in San Diego eine sehr schöne Zeit verbracht, an die wir gerne zurück denken. Aber Phil war auch ein überzeugt gläubiger Mensch. Es ist ein Trost,  dass Phil nun in diesem Glauben jetzt bei seiner Frau Barbara ist, die er so lange gepflegt und vermisst hat. Wir denken an Phil mit vielen schönen Erinnerungen Susie, Hariolf, Max und Georg 

I worked at BBDS&B from May 2005 until December 2007. Since leaving sixteen years ago, he has been a continued presence in my thoughts. My desk was just right outside of his office. He would give everyone and anyone a hard time. That is what made him such a great employer to work for. He will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. 

He was a terrific man to know. 

I worked at a law firm two floors down from Mr. Burt’s. He insulted me throughout the years like I was one of them. One day a job came open there and I called Mr. Burt and he got me in for the interview and I’ve been there ever sense. The joy I have had working for the firm had a lot to do with Mr. Burt. He was one of a kind. He called me a lot of names that still make me laugh. I will truly miss this man, but I am so happy he is with Barbara now.
Beth Close

Mr. Burt was a blessing to all who had the pleasure of knowing him and my prayers and condolences are with his kids and family members. I grew up with the Burt kids and can remember Mr. Burt firing me up to swim harder at meets. His firm helped me out of some very trying times . Mr. Burt did not play the role, but had a special identity H.e will be missed by all. May you RIP sir.

OBITUARY

John "Phil" Philip Burt

December 14, 1935 – July 21, 2023

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Updates

Services