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Charles Burchett Obituary

BURCHETT, CHARLES R., SR. - longtime University of Tennessee Dean of Student Conduct, died Sunday morning, November 9, 2008 at the Ben Atchley State Veteran's Home in Knoxville from the effects of a stroke he suffered in June. Dean Burchett, 85, was a World War II combat veteran who served with the United States Marine Corps in the South Pacific and China. He enrolled in Officers Candidate Training School at Georgia Tech where he'd planned to study engineering, but got worried that the war would be over before he got there, so he flunked out on purpose by failing to take an exam. After the war, Charlie went back to school, earning a BS degree from Austin Peay State University and an MA from George Peabody College. He was a friend to nearly three generations of UT students during his 46 years of service there. The Clarksville native built a reputation as a tough but fair disciplinarian and student advocate.. He was active in the community and was elected to the Knoxville Board of Education in 1965. His colleagues elected him chair during his first term, and he presided over the tumultuous years of school desegregation. Charlie Burchett helped guide Knoxville through that time, during which he became close to fellow board member and civil rights icon Sarah Moore Greene, the first African-American school board member. In 1974, he decided that a new East Side elementary school should be named after her. Charlie Burchett also served as a member of the Knox County Library Board and was a past president of the West Knoxville Republican Club. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Joyce Hicks Burchett; daughter, Joyce Burchett High and her husband, Dr. Bill High; son, Charles R. Burchett Jr. and his wife, Dr. Rocio Huet; son, state Senator Tim Burchett and his wife, Allison Beaver Burchett; six grandchildren, Billy, Charlie and David High, Ann Kirby and Sam Burchett and Codee Fineburg. A service in celebration of Charlie Burchett's life will be 6:00 P.M. Tuesday, Veterans Day, at Cedar Springs Presbyterian Church with Rev. Bill Couch officiating. The family will receive friends following the service. Family and friends will meet at Tennessee Veterans Cemetery Wednesday for a 3:00 P.M. interment service with military honors presented by the United States Marine Corps Honor Guard. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the Young Marines, 2101 Alcoa Hwy., Knoxville, TN 37920, Salvation Army 409 N. Broadway, Knoxville, TN 37917, or Knox Area Rescue Ministries, P.O. Box 3310 Knoxville, TN 37927. Arrangements by Rose Mortuary Mann Heritage Chapel. www.rosemortuary.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Knoxville News Sentinel from Nov. 10 to Nov. 11, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Charles Burchett

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Cynthia Laing St. Germain

November 22, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with your family in this time of grieving. What a smile Dean Burchett put on so many faces. Before my first steps into the halls or streets of UT, Dean Burchett invited me to his office one day to so kindly take me under his wing and offer some fatherly advice. He shared his vast knowledge and wisdom on how to succeed in school and how to, as he put it, "stay out of his office". He looked out for so many of us with genuine care. This will never be forgotten. What an honor to know such a man and what a joy to see that he has passed that part of himself on to his family. I know he will be missed by many, but in his remembrance, we will have our hearts filled with happiness in knowing Dean Burchett.

Tina Lobetti-Chiozza

November 21, 2008

Thinking of you and your family. I am sorry for your loss. Tim, you always had a close wonderful relationship with you family that I admired. I know you will miss him terribly.

Alesa Rottersman

November 19, 2008

Very deepest condolences to Tim & Allison, Mrs. Burchett and the entire Burchett family.

My mother and I have wonderful memories of Dean Burchett from my freshman orientation session at U.T. the summer of 1983. He was a wonderful man who was respected by parents and students alike.

The world has lost a truly unique, humorous, humble and gracious man who touched so many. I am so very sorry for your family's and this community's loss.

Victoria Jansma

November 18, 2008

Burchett Family,

Please know how sorry we were to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

The Al Peroulas Family
Lena, Victoria and Brian Jansma, Margaret and Brad Stone, Sammy and Amanda Peroulas

Pat Farmer Frierson

November 16, 2008

Mrs. Burchett and family,
I worked for Dean Burchett in the Student Orientation Office from 1967 until 1972. He helped me get my first teaching job with the Knoxville City Schools. I have such fond memories of Dean Burchett from the intricate wire sculptures that filled his office to his contagious smile and laughter. He was like a father to all the students that worked for him and I felt privileged to know him. I even took my husband to meet Dean Burchette on a visit back home because he (my husband) wanted to meet the man who had influenced my life so much. I will keep you in my prayers and I know that the Lord is comforting the entire Burchett family at this time.

Terri & Jason Hunley- Fife

November 15, 2008

Tim & Family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Tracy Smith

November 14, 2008

Dean Burchett was such a special person. I met him many years ago when I worked at UT. He truly cared about his students and his community. He will be sadly missed.

Sherry Witt

November 14, 2008

Dear Burchett Family,
I first met Charlie when I was a student at UT. I will never forget his dancing eyes and happy heart. I think three words that best describe Charlie Burchett are "gentle, kind and fair." He always greeted people with a smile and a joke. I can just picture him telling something on Mama Burchett and her just shaking her head. He was loved by all people of all ages, and was a great role model to so many. My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of sorrow.

Jim and Cecelia Peacock

November 13, 2008

We were so sorry to hear of Charlie's passing. He was such a happy, lovely man! Tim , you know Jim would have been there were he not so very ill. Please know, however, that Jim really loved Charlie and would have said, "Semper Fi, dear friend". We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.

Captain Trent D. Laviano

November 13, 2008

Charlie Burchett was a tremendous example of why the World War II veterans have been called the greatest generation. He was a truly exemplary individual who had a positive impact on everyone he met. He had the type of character that is very rare today. I feel very fortunate to have known Charlie Burchett and I will really miss him.

Venus Casey, LPN

November 12, 2008

Mrs. Burchett,
A friend once asked me, "What kind of food do they have in heaven? Will they have spiritual food or real food?" I replied "Hopefully, they will have both!"
It was truly an honor to care for Mr. Burchett during his final days. He was indeed a great man, I only wish I had met him earlier in life. It really touched my heart to see such a dedicated wife. May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
My Love & Prayers,

Darrell Hodge

November 12, 2008

Mrs. Burchett, Joyce, Charlie, and Tim,

I recall often with fond memories how Charlie would talk to me about his musical arrangement of "The Lily of the Valley". I know that now he is rejoicing and hearing "perfect singing" at his new home in heaven. Please know that we are praying for all of you.

Darrell & Kim Hodge

Rebecca Perkins

November 12, 2008

Mr. Charlie was a great man and will truly be missed.

Gail Early Jokerst

November 12, 2008

Dear Tim and family,

Your father was one of the finest men I had the pleasure of knowing. His influences on the lives he touched will be a lasting memorial. He truly lives on in the outstanding family he and your mother produced. What lucky people we all were to have Dean Burchett in our lives.

My Sincere Condolences,

Gail Early Jokerst

Laura Wheeler

November 11, 2008

Tim and Family,
Sorry to hear of Charlie's passing - he was truly a fine man.
You are all in my thoughts and prayer.
Laura (LT) & Jim Wheeler

Brad Hatcher

November 11, 2008

Tim, Semper Fidelis, In Hoc Signo Vinces, etc.......I'm sorry for your loss.....Your dad steered me in the right direction when I needed it most!

Sharon Alley

November 11, 2008

Tim, Joyce and Family
I'm so sorry to hear of the loss of your Dad. I was fortunate to spend some quality time with him in college. He was a jewel! All of you are in my prayers.

Katherine Shook

November 11, 2008

I am sorry for your loss.Charlie was a fine fellow.

Brenda Waggoner

November 11, 2008

Charlie was a great guy and a very fine man who helped a lot of people during his life. I always enjoyed him. I know the memories will warm your hearts in the days and years ahead.

Johnny McElroy

November 11, 2008

Mrs. Burchett, Joyce, Charlie, and Tim,
You are in my thoughts and prayers.

rebecca haun

November 11, 2008

we will miss taking care of mr. burchett, but we all know he is in a better place..11-7 cna's who took care of him:april miller, leshawn sims,sherry automashi, matila walker, marsha huckaby, rebecca haun. the family will be in our prayers..your friends @ ben atchley's veterans home

Rachel E. Inman

November 11, 2008

Joyce, Joyce, Charles & Tim,

I worked with Mr. Burchett for many years in the Student Conduct Office. He was always an advocate for students. On many occasions I observed him do everything he could to help a troubled student. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Richard & Shirley Craig

November 11, 2008

The Burchett Family, With our deepest sympathy to all of you We are praying for your compfort and peace during this period! We will always remember you guys and the friendship we used to share-Thanks!

Jablonski - (Suzanne Rose)

November 11, 2008

Tim- I'm so sorry for the lose of your dad. Always know you are in our prayers

Ed and Vicki Atchley

November 11, 2008

Joyce, Joyce, Charles and Tim,

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and all of your family at this sad time. May the good memories and times you shared with your husband and father relieve some of the pain in your hearts.

Stacy Patterson

November 11, 2008

Tim, sorry for your loss.

Sgt Kevin Tarbell

November 11, 2008

I knew him as a proud Marine, He made me proud to have served.Like my father he was proud of his counrty and served also,I looked foward to every Memorial Day so I could see him and talk to him since my dad was gone. He is with the Angles and will be missed by all.

Steve, Donna, Steven and Tracie Hall

November 11, 2008

Tim and family,

So sorry for your loss! Knoxville has lost a great asset to the community.

Holly Kennedy House and Jordan House

November 11, 2008

C.B. was and will always be an American Hero. He was fearless to a fault. He was brave enough to always do what he felt was right even when it was not the popular choice--at all. He stood up for the underdog and watched out for the ones who could not watch out for themselves. He was brilliantly charming and funny, and sometimes a little ornery but it was all in good fun and absolutely part of his charm. He did so many good things for people, like slipping a hundred dollar bill around Christmas time to a single mother to help with buying presents that no one ever knew about just out of the goodness of his heart. And I know I was not the only one because I saw him quietly doing those sorts of things all the time. And I dont think a prouder father or husband has ever lived. Out of all the heros to pick from, Tim, its easy to see why you picked him. People like C.B. are just borrowed angels, although I know it doesn't make it any easier giving them back.I know he wouldn't want anyone to be sad..well,actually, maybe a little sad- but at least not for very long!..He certainly did have a sense of humor! His valiant and beautiful spirit will live on forever in the hearts of every person ever privileged enough to have known such a strong, God-fearing, generous, brave and wonderful man.

Gary & Kimberly Litton

November 11, 2008

A fine man and such a great loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. May God comfort you all.

Warren & Elizabeth Bagley & Gilmore

November 11, 2008

Charlie: Sorry for your loss. He will be missed by, and yet live on in, many folks in this area.

Margaret Jourdan

November 11, 2008

Mrs. Burchett, Joyce, Charles, & Tim,
We are so sorry for your loss. We pray for comfort and God's peace for your family.
Margaret (Howard) Jourdan & Chris Jourdan

Ben Harrington

November 11, 2008

To the Burchett Family:

My thoughts and prayers are with you during these tough times.

Our community has been made richer by the oppportunity to work with Charlie Burchett during his University of Tennessee service and his community service to the school & library systems.

Having known Dean Burchett as a colleague at the University for four years, I know he would not want us to dwell on his passing but rather to celebrate his zest for life and marvelous sense of humor he shared with all.

Judy & Denny Cunningham

November 11, 2008

Joyce High & family: Our condolences on the loss of your beloved father. Our prayers are with you during this sad time.

Becky Cross

November 11, 2008

Mrs. Burchett and Joyce, So sorry for your lost. My prayers are with you and your family. Sincerely yours, Becky Cross

Leigh Hendry

November 10, 2008

To the family of Senator Tim Burchett:
Tim, We just wanted you to know that Bo and I are thinking of you at this sad time in your life. Your dad was a terrific human being and he will be missed. Love, Leigh & Bo

Chris,Karen,Logan & Tori Kerr

November 10, 2008

To the Burchett/High Family:

What a Great American you are privileged to have as your family member and Ancestor.

We are so sorry to hear of your Great Loss.

His WWII stories are "Semper Fi" and True.

His Creator Was, Has and Will always be Faithful to our favorite WWII Marine, Charlie Burchett, Sr..

What a Great Reunion there must be on the other side.

The Kerr Family:

Erika Kopp Howard

November 10, 2008

Tim: I lost my Dad a month ago, and I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers. It's a tough time and you'll find strength in God. Take care.

Sharon Gigliotti

November 10, 2008

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Janie Hunter

November 10, 2008

I would like to offer my condolences to Senator Tim Burchett and his family in their time of mourning. I did not know Mr. Charles Burchett but I am very proud to say I know his son the Senator. He must have been a wonderful man to have raised such a great guy as Tim.
My prayers and thoughts will be with you as you say your goodbyes.
May God give you the strength and faith you require to see you through these difficult times.
Always remember: Wherever you go, God is already there.
Your Friend,
Janie Hunter

David and Sylvia Greene

November 10, 2008

What a great guy. Sylvia and I really loved knowing the whole Burchett family during our time together at church. Mrs. Burchett, Charlie, Joyce, and Tim----you all were special people to our family. Mr. Burchett was one of a kind. Thanks to all of you and our prayers are with you during this loss.

Brad Roach

November 10, 2008

This world has seen few better than Charles Burchett. Joyce, Charles, Joycie and Tim - My heartfelt sympathy and prayers are with you and your families. I count it a great priviledge to have known and shared stories, jokes and laughs with this man. He created smiles everywhere

Rebecca Wester

November 10, 2008

Senator Burchett, it has been a couple of years ago that I had the honor of meeting you and touring you through one of our state juvenile facilities. I have followed your career since as I was so impressed with you as a person. As a state senator you are serving us well and I have no doubt your father was so very proud of you. It is obvious that your parents took the time to make you an important part of their lives. God bless you and your family during this most difficult time. You are in my prayers.

Betty Bean

November 10, 2008

I guess it's goodbye, for now, old friend. I've loved knowing you and yours over the years, and I'll even miss your corny jokes. Thanks for everything--

C. Bailey

November 10, 2008

Our prayers are for Mr. Burchetts family during this time. I know that he is receiving his reward with his King, Praise the Lord.

I knew Mr. Burchett through bible studies when I worked at UT. He held them in his office at lunch. His life touched many. God bless you all.

Elaine Shipe

November 10, 2008

So very sorry to hear about Charlie.
He was a special person to all who knew him.

Elaine Q. Shipe

Maosa (Will) Moore

November 10, 2008

I worked for Mr. Burchett in the Dean of Students office, University of Tennessee. He was always the most fun, kind, respectful person to work for. I was able to keep up with him throughout the years through fellow workers and mutual friends. He was a great friend.

Keith Hinkle

November 10, 2008

I have always considered myself privileged to have worked for Dean Burchett as a graduate assistant in his office. He was a gentleman and he genuinely loved life and loved the students he served. May God comfort those of you that he left behind. The world was a better place because he lived.

Becky & Morton Massey

November 10, 2008

Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of loss. I know that you will cherish your memories.

Edy Copeland

November 10, 2008

Chris and Edy Copeland

Dawn (Eklund) Henry

November 10, 2008

My prayers are with your family. I'm very sorry for the loss of Dean Burchett. He was a great man and he will be miseed.

Monica Cunningham

November 10, 2008

Joyce, Bill, Billy, Charlie and David,

We are so sorry to hear about CB. He was surely one of a kind! You all are in our prayers.

In Him,
Monica, Richard, Burns, Kathryn, Michael and Whitaker

Mike & Fran Utz

November 10, 2008

To The Family,
May the thoughts of good memories be a part of days to come, for His body is at rest, and his suffering is done.
Prayers for God's Grace to help in your time of sorrow.

Earl and Libby Sharp

November 10, 2008

Honesty, intregrity, character and morality were traits exemplified by Charlie. I know the family is proud as they celebrate his life. We join with you in the memories of this great man.

Jan Howard

November 10, 2008

Charlie was a great friend when I worked as the Dir. of Disability Services. He could always lift one's spirits and provide sound advice. He will be missed.

Meredith & Brad Kuester

November 10, 2008

I had the great pleasure of meeting Mr. Burchett a couple of years ago when he accidently hit my car. There was no damage, but he was such a true gentleman that he knocked on the door of the house that I was visiting, and made a point of letting me know. He was so proud of his children that during our brief encounter he told me all about them.
I am sorry for your loss and know that God has welcomed him home.
Most sincerely,
Meredith Christenberry Kuester

Tracy Miller-Davis

November 10, 2008

Our thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time. Tim, we're so sorry to hear of your father's passing.
In prayer,
Tracy (Miller), Greg,
Dustin & Tyler Davis

Heather Perry

November 10, 2008

Tim and Family, I am so sorry to hear of Dean Burchett's passing. He was a true gentleman and always had a smile for us kids at UT. You and your family will remain in our prayers.
Susan and Heather Perry

Brenda Mozur

November 10, 2008

Tim and Joyce, My prayers are with you and your family during this time. I know he will be missed by everyone. Chris always spoke so highly of your father. Love, Brenda Mozur

David And Linda Spoon

November 10, 2008

Tim Our Prayers Are With You During This Time Of Sorry.

Parkey and Glenda Strader

November 10, 2008

We do send our condolences to Mrs. Burchett,Tim and family. Charles was a very good friend and always gave me words of encouragement in what ever I face. His prayers were always with me. Our prayers are with you now and forever. Charles, was a great leader and loved by all. Sorry, we will be unable to pay our respects I will be having surgery Tues. at Mayos. Our heart goes out to you at this time.

David&Bernice Hennessee

November 10, 2008

So sorry for your loss.

johny floyd

November 10, 2008

sorry for your lost. I was able to meet yor father @ u t football games. Is was a real honor to meet a true war veteran.my prayers are with your family during this time of sorrow

Larry Hunter

November 10, 2008

Tim, I'm so sorry for your loss. I never met your Dad, but considering how he raised a good man like you, he must have been a fine man.

James Pippin

November 10, 2008

Mr. Burchett was always supportive of our Minority/Diversity Engineering Programs in the College of Engineering at UTK. I could always go to him for advice for any problems students might have on campus. Mr. Burchett will be missed.
We Pray for your comfort during this time.

ALBERT MILLER

November 10, 2008

Heaven shines Brighter with Charley there. I cherish his friendship, his humor and his love for God and Country.

Steve Rose

November 10, 2008

I have been really blessed to have know such a fine man as Charlie. I am always in tears at the notice of a brother Marine passing. His friendship will always be cherished. I will miss the old storys and humorous comments. Charlie, I will miss you! As for the faimly, you are in my prayers.

Lauralie (Morton) Rubel

November 10, 2008

Tim, I am so sorry for your loss. Your dad was admired by so many people, and I know he is enormously proud of you. I am praying for your comfort and peace.

Pat Kerschieter

November 10, 2008

Dear Tim and Family,
Please accept my condolences. I didn't know him, but I know he must have been a great man and father to have raised you the way he did. It is hard but life does go on I lost my Father 44 years ago when I was just a teenager. God Bless you and your Family.
Pat Kerschieter

Benny Jones

November 10, 2008

My condolences to the Burchett family. Mrs. Burchett and Joyce, I remembed you from high school. Joyce, I never thanked you for helping my sister when our mother died in 1977. Thank you. My prayers are with you all.

Kim Isenberg

November 10, 2008

My sincere condolences on the passing of CB. He was one-of-a-kind. A true gentleman and a true hero. May his memories bring you comfort in the days ahead. Your entire family will be in my prayers.

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