99
Canton, SD (formerly Sioux Falls, SD)
May 29, 2021
Donald Vern Burnett was born on January 2, 1922, in Brookings to Russell and Hattie (Brightwell) Burnett. He was raised and received his education in Westside, Iowa.
Donald was united in marriage with Cleo Marie Sigler on August 22, 1941, in Luverne, Minn. In October of 1942, Donald joined the war effort and enlisted into the United States Army Air Force and honorably served until his discharge in 1946. Following the service, Donald and Cleo farmed south of Battle Creek, Iowa for over 20 years where they were blessed with three children. In 1962, the family moved to California where Donald worked in the street departments for the cities of Brisbane and Redwood City. While living in California, the couple enjoyed square dancing and traveling all over the United States and Canada for dancing festivals. In 1991, Don and Cleo made their home in Sioux Falls. The couple celebrated their 75th wedding anniversary on August 22, 2017, with many of their family and friends. Don was a member of East Side Presbyterian Church in Sioux Falls where he served as an Elder. He was also a lifetime member of the American Legion.
In addition to square dancing, Donald enjoyed fishing, camping, boating, spending time at their lake home, playing card games and above all, spending time with his family; especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Grateful for having shared his life are two sons, Donald Burnett Jr., Tracy, Calif. and Dennis Burnett, Colton; one daughter, Vicki Burnett, Santa Rosa, Calif.; nine grandchildren: Kimberley Burnett, Donald (Jackie) Burnett III, Daniel Burnett, Huwey Burnett, Donetta Burnett, Heidi (Anthony) Novello, Shaina Nebel, Stacey (Brendan Sullivan) Buffington and Robyn (Nick) Chase; 10 great-grandchildren: Tyler Seng, Sienna Chase, Sofia Nebel, Anthony Nebel, MaKenna Novello, Gianna Burnett, Grant Burnett, Braeya Sullivan, Nathaniel Burnett and Elizabeth Burnett; sister-in-law, Shirley Snapper, Sioux Falls; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Donald was preceded in death by his wife, Cleo Marie Burnett on May 6, 2018; his father, Russell Burnett; mother and stepfather, Hattie and Peter Voege.
Funeral services will be held at 10 am on Saturday, June 5, 2021, at George Boom Funeral Home & On-Site Crematory in Sioux Falls, SD with burial to follow at Mount Pleasant Cemetery. Visitation will begin at 5 pm on Friday at the funeral home with her family present to greet friends from 5-7 pm.
Arrangements provided by George Boom Funeral home.