Joan Burkett

Burkett, Joan Eloise
August 19, 1930 - March 26, 2013
Joan Eloise Burkett (age 82) died on March 26, 2013, at home in Carlsbad, California from cancer related complications. Born and raised in Southern California, Joan grew up in Fullerton, Long Beach and Riverside. After marrying Rus Burkett (61 years of marriage) they made their home in Hastings Ranch, South Pasadena, Palm Desert and now Carlsbad. Joan was a dedicated volunteer for all things that would better the lives of children, as a Den Mother, Camp Fire Girl Leader, PTA President, and National Charity League President. A "South Pasadena Tiger and USC Trojan by marriage", she was involved with Boosters for the South Pasadena Football Program and has been a long time supporter of USC Athletics (particularly golf and football). Once an empty nester, Joanie took up golf as the only way she figured she could entice Rus to travel. They went on many golf safaris throughout the world, and met some of their best friends though these trips. Golf became such a passion, that Joan not only played, but greatly enjoyed being a course scorer for many professional tourneys in the Coachella Valley venues. In most recent years she found the new love of Mah Jong and the renewed love of Bridge, as a wonderful way to connect with friends... and perhaps earn a little betting change! Her passions in life were her family and her artistic love for watercolor and oil painting.
A private Memorial is planned for a later date, with family at the -B Ranch. Joan is survived by her Husband Russel E. Burkett, Jr., Children: Rusty Burkett, Lori Burkett Howard, Terry Burkett Hall and Richard Burkett, their loving spouses and seven (surviving) grandchildren. Donations can be made in Joan's name to the UCSD Cancer Center, the USC Golf Program, or a charity close to your heart.