John Norman Burkett

John Norman Burkett, 71, of Punxsutawney passed away on Wednesday, April 24, 2019 holding his beloved wife Betty’s hand while also surrounded by his family.

He was born on October 07, 1947 in Punxsutawney the son of the late Joseph Howard and Violet LaRue (Dehaven) Burkett.

On September 04, 1964 he married the love of his life, Betty Jane Bodenhorn.  Together they enjoyed fifty-four years of marriage and raised a beautiful family.

John worked as a machinist for Acme and Miller Welding until his health declined. 

After he was no longer able to work, John continued to do meaningful things with his God given talent. He was well known for being a perfectionist when wood working or leather crafting. From leather he made wallets, purses and rifle slings among other things. In woodworking he handcrafted to the finest details, replica trucks, cars, log trucks, vanity’s, airplanes, gun cabinets, and cupboards.  He could handcraft an airplane in a day’s time and be flying it the next.  He shared his passion of flying remote control airplanes by teaching many adults and kids how to fly the planes.  John was talented and could fix anything.

In addition to his wife Betty, he is survived by four children, Bill Burkett and wife Janet of Punxsutawney, Darlene Kniseley and husband Rodney of Knoxdale, Joe Burkett and wife Greta of Punxsutawney, and Jeff Burkett and fiancé Kim Vizza of Punxsutawney;  grandchildren, Lynn Young and husband Luke, Keith Kniseley and wife Emily, Holly Burkett, David Burkett and wife Markie, Kyle Burkett, Alexis Snair, Brandon Burkett, Caley Colberg and husband Daniel, Michele Burkett, Ricky Burkett, and Makayla Burkett, Jessica and Joshua Kiehl; fifteen great grandchildren.

There will be no viewing or visitation.  Arrangements entrusted to Shumaker Funeral Home, Inc., Punxsutawney. 

Friends will be received from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. Saturday, May 4, 2019 at Albion United Methodist Church.  A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. at the church, officiated by Pastor Joel Fugate.

Memorial donations may be made in John’s memory to Albion United Methodist Church.

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