Robert “Bob” E. Burkett, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 24, 2025, at SSM Health Good Samaritan Hospital in Mt. Vernon, Illinois, surrounded by his family.
Born on March 23, 1940, in Salem, Illinois, son of Lowell and Lydia (Booth) Burkett. On June 16, 1959 in Salem, Illinois, Bob married the love of his life, Velma Baker, and she survives.
Bob is survived by his devoted wife of 66 years, Velma Burkett of Centralia, and his loving children: Janet Vahlkamp and husband Al of Salem, Beverley Gittemeier of Centralia, and Robert “Robbie” E. Burkett and wife Tracy of Salem. Bob was the proud grandfather of nine grandchildren: Erika Thompson (Matt) of Berea, Kentucky, Erin Amason (Jared) of Centralia, Alie Vahlkamp of Los Angeles, California, Abie Vahlkamp of St. Louis, Missouri, Dan Gittemeier (Kari) of Muncie, Indiana, Troy Gittemeier (Samantha) of Farmersburg, Indiana, Amanda Ogrzewalla (Jeremy) of Salem, Preston Burkett of Salem, and Morgann Burkett of Salem. He cherished his time with his 13 great-grandchildren and found great joy in family gatherings.
Bob is also survived by his siblings: brothers Glenn Burkett (Shelba) of Centralia, Jim Burkett of Florida, and Dale Burkett of Salem, as well as his sister Pat Young of Salem. He leaves behind a number of nieces and nephews, all of whom he held dear.
Throughout his life, Bob was an industrious man, dedicating many years of service as a driver for UPS. His commitment to his work was only rivaled by his dedication to his country, having served honorably in the Army.
Bob’s interests were as varied as they were passionate. He found peace in the woods, enjoying hunting and fishing, and he was known to enjoy a good game of video poker and playing cards with friends and family. Above all, Bob’s heart was always with his family, whom he loved deeply.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Lowell and Lydia Burkett; his son-in-law, Dan Gittemeier; his brother, Ronnie Burkett; and his brother-in-law, Roy Young.
In accordance with Bob’s wishes, cremation rites will be accorded, and a Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, September 20, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Janet’s home. In remembrance of Bob, the family invites memorial donations to be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Shriners’ Children’s Hospital. Donations will be accepted at Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home, 235 North Sycamore Street, Centralia, Illinois 62801, (618)532-3523, who is honored to be of service to Bob’s Family. Online condolences can be shared by visiting the funeral home’s website at www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com and their Facebook page.
