Donald R. Burdette

Donald R. Burdette, 86, of Peoria passed away Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2012, at his home. He was born March 28, 1925, in Peoria, a son of Isaac and Gertrude (Lamm) Burdette. He married Betty L. Hopwood on Jan. 5, 1947. She passed away on Nov. 26, 2011. He is survived by two daughters, Dona (Rick) Guth of Danvers and Betsy Burdette of Peoria; two grandchildren, Garrick (Melissa) Guth of Kyle, Texas, and Heidi (Eric) Bowman of Congerville; four great-grandchildren; and sisters Evelyn Starcevic and Dorothy Schwerer of Peoria and Jean (Art) Haedicke of East Peoria. Along with his wife of 64 years, Don was preceded in death by brothers Ed and Gordon Burdette and sisters Florence Beck, Ceil Bachler and Viola Rose. Don served in the U.S. Army from 1943-46 as a machine gunner and paratrooper. He was a letter carrier for the U.S. Postal Service for 42 years. In earlier times, Don enjoyed going to garage sales, fishing, and planting flowers. He had a great sense of humor and a sweet tooth. He loved his family and his pet cats, especially his little "girlfriend," Roxanne. Cremation rites have been accorded, and no services are planned. In honor of Don, please support the U.S. Postal Service. In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to the family to be distributed to Don's favorite charities.