Robert “Bob” Ambrose Burkett

A lifelong area resident, he was born on April 3, 1934, in Jamestown, NY, a son of the late Burkett and Helen Margaret (Dillingham) Burkett.

Bob was a 1952 graduate of Cassadaga Valley High School where he was active in multiple in the marching band. He continued to love music throughout his life and loved polka, country, Johnny Cash, and old-time gospel hymns.

He joined the US Marine Corp in 1953, served in the Korean War as a mechanic, and washonorably discharged in 1956. After serving his country in the military, he was employed as an inspector at National Fuel Gas Company for 43 years serving in various positions within the company. After retirement, he became an avid cyclist and golfer, belonging to several area courses. He was a humorous storyteller and was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend.

Bob met his wife, Sonya Ruth Bore, at Midway Roller Rink in September 1956 and was married at Kidder Church in Jamestown, NY on August 8, 1958, and recently celebrated their 66thnwedding anniversary. Bob and Sonya enjoyed boating, camping, and traveling around the USA, especially Colorado.

He was a longtime member of Kidder Memorial Church, joining with his family in 1944, at 10 years old and was a church member for 80 years. He served on various boards and committees, including as an Elder Trustee, and aided facilities management to keep the church building running smoothly.

Bob is survived by his wife, Sonya, two daughters, Marta (Sune) Burkett, of Senja, Norway; and Sarah (Lee) Gretchen-Burkett Divina-Prosise, of Broomfield, Colorado; and two granddaughters, Sophia Isabella-Burkett Montoya and Jaylyn Marie Montoya, also of Broomfield, Colorado. He is additionally survived by Pamela Faith (Burkett) Westley as well as one special niece and many cherished nephews.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by an older brother, Stanley Schuyler Burkett.

A Memorial Celebration of Bob’s life will be held in May 2025 at Kidder Memorial Global Methodist Church with Pastor Mike Kerzee officiating. Burial will be in Gerry Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Kidder Memorial Global Methodist Church, 385 South Main St, Jamestown NY 14701 or Chautauqua Hospice & Palliative Care, 20 West Fairmount Ave, Lakewood, NY 14750.

You may leave words of condolence at www. lindfuneralhome.com.