Gary Dean Burkett

Gary Dean Burkett, 83, of Topeka passed away surrounded by his family on January 31st, 2024.

He was the 5th child born to Paul W Burkett and Olive R (Newman) Burkett on February 24th, 1940, in Topeka, Ks. His family moved to Chillicothe Il. in his early childhood. He attended many Chicago Cubs games and became a lifelong fan. His family took many vacations to Minnesota, and he became an avid fisherman. Gary graduated from Chillicothe Highschool and then San Diego State University. He followed in his father's footsteps and began his career with the Santa Fe Railroad. Gary married Linda Shuman, the love of his life, on October 1st, 1965. She had three daughters he raised as his own and they had two sons together.

He was with the railroad for almost 30 years and completed his career with Santa Fe as the Manager of the Data Processing bureau in Topeka Ks. In his later years, he worked as Office Manager for Torgeson Electric. In his retirement he enjoyed woodworking, gardening, and cooking.

On August 15th, 1986, Gary checked himself into Valley Hope Treatment Center. He spent the rest of his life living "the AA program" and finding God. His sobriety and meetings were one of the top priorities in his life. He was in charge of many meetings through the years, and he also sponsored people along the way. He died with over 37 years of sobriety.

Survivors include his children; Debbie (Joe) Beuerlein; MaryBeth Simmons; Kim (Trent) Vausbinder; Marvin (Angie) Burkett. Gary had 10 grandchildren and 5 great- grandchildren. He was proceeded in death by his wife of 47 years, Linda, his parents, four siblings, son, Dean Burkett, son-in-law, Wade Simmons, and a grandson.

A Celebration of Life will be held on his 84th birthday, Saturday February 24th from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Ward Meade Park. Due to space limitations, the family has requested no gifts or flowers. As an expression of sympathy, Gary would want donations to be made to Valley Hope Treatment Center 1816 N 2nd St Atchison, Ks 66002, or The American Cancer Society.