KENNETH L.A. BURGET

1951 - 2023

KENNETH L.A. BURGET, 71, of Fort Wayne, Ind., took his last breath on Friday, March 3, 2023, at 9:25 a.m. Born the eighth child of 16 on Oct. 12, 1951, he was a Vietnam War U.S. Army veteran earning three bronze service stars, the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Marksman Badge with Rifle Bar, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Ribbon with Device, and the Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation with Palm. A faithful servant of God, rededicating his life to his Lord and Savior through water baptism in March, 2019, he would be often found at his desk reading the Bible, which he did daily for at least one hour. His carefree spirit touched the lives of all that met him. Also known as "The Joke Guy" and the "Squirrel Man," he always searched for a way to make everyone smile or brighten their day. He would give of himself even when he had nothing. A self-taught genius of wood craftsmanship taking pieces that were old and broken and turning them into beautiful treasures to admire for decades to follow, "he could also take any idea you had and create it perfectly!" He had many interests: wildlife, spending time on the lake, fishing, playing cards, wind chimes, comics, homegrown tomatoes, home cooked meals, 'tinkering' in the garage, photography, movies - especially John Wayne Westerns, attending the First Assembly of God Church, and their Senior Luncheons, listening to Gospel and Country Western music to name a few. Most of all he loved being in the presence of his friends, fur babies, Vinny, Dali, Dazi, Savannah, and others; and his wife and soulmate of 51 years, Rita. Preceding him in death was his dearest friend, Michelle; and his beloved 'Duke'. Special thanks to First Assembly of God, his closest friends, Fort Wayne Fire Department, TRAA, chaplains and ICU of Lutheran Hospital, Stillwater Hospice "for the excellent care and compassion we received." So, with him in mind, tell someone a joke today (the cornier the better) and make them smile. Also, hug someone today and tell them you love them. "Well done on your life's journey Ken, everyone could always count on you! Until I see you again my sweet precious angel - all things beautiful will remind me of you." I Love You! - Rita. Arrangements have been entrusted to Divine Mercy Funeral Home. A Memorial Service will be announced at a later date. Share memories at www.divinemercyfuneralhome.org