11/28/1927-10/17/2019

James R. Burkett age 92, of Dunkirk and former Portland resident passed away Thursday evening October 17, 2019 at his residence. He was born in Marion, Ohio on September 28, 1927 the son of Fred and Ana (McGriff) Burkett. He was married in 1949 to Donna Crouse and she died in 1981. He was remarried on July 10, 1988 to Cheryl Burk who survives. He was retired as a mail carrier and had also worked at Sheller-Globe, The Flower Nook and Tom Raper. He was a 1946 Portland High School graduate and served in the National Guard. He was a Boy Scout Leader, enjoyed square dancing and was a member of Integrise Community Church. He was a avid sports fan especially the Indianapolis Colts.

Surviving are his wife Cheryl, two sons Bradley Burkett (wife Debbie) of Berne and Frank Burkett (wife Beth) of Hilliard, Ohio, Step-son Wade Smelser (wife Deionna) of Bluffton, step-daughter Natalie Smelser of Muncie, sister in law Barb E. Mills of Dunkirk, Three grandchildren, seven step-grandchildren, three great grandchildren, twelve step great grandchildren and five step great great grandchildren, favorite nieces Tina Rocci and Linda Huston. He was preceded in death by a son Stanley Burkett.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday October 22, 2019 at 2:00 PM in the Baird-Freeman Funeral Home with Pastor Greg Haisley presiding. Burial will follow in the Lawndale Cemetery in Ridgeville. Visitation will be Tuesday from 11:00 – 2:00 PM. Memorials can be made to Jay County Cancer Society.