VERNON B. "BEN" BURKETT

My big brother passed away quietly, March 16, 2015, just days after reaching his 60th birthday, from complications of diabetes. He will now be joining his parents, Betty DeVries and Herb Burkett, who preceded him in death. Ben spent the last several years working as a Network Center Technician for AT&T. When he wasn't working, Ben would listen to the Royals games, often while working on his car, armed with his best friend, the Chilton's Manual. While vacationing, he got around to visiting 48 states. Of all his accomplishments, Ben was most proud of the fact that he served in the Air Force as a Cryptographic Technician, reaching the rank of Airman 1st class. Ben is survived by me, his sister, Brenda (Bill) Wolcheski. He made sure I was able to better see the world from atop his shoulders, and for that I am forever grateful. He also leaves two aunts, an uncle, and several cousins behind. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to any Diabetes foundation of your choice. The family will receive friends 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, March 26, at the Mary Butler Meyers Funeral Home, 6300 Parallel Pkwy, Kansas City, Kan. Come prepared to share stories about Ben, so we can learn more about this very private person. To leave memories and condolences, please visit our website at www.marybutlermeyers.com. Arr.: Mary Butler Meyers Funeral Home, (913) 334-6300.