Lieutenant Colonel Adam R. Burks
1974 - 2022
Lieutenant Colonel Adam R. Burks
1974 - 2022
Obituary
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BORN
1974
DIED
2022
Lieutenant Colonel Adam Burks Obituary
Lt Colonel Adam Roberson Burks
Adam Roberson Burks was born November 1, 1974 in the South Suburbs of Chicago. Adam is the second son born to Alvinnetta Burks and Lawyer Lee Burks, II. Adam liked to hear and tell the story that his Mom, after a heavy night of Halloween “Trick or Treating” with his brother and other neighborhood children, went to the hospital the next day and gave birth to him. As a result, Adam enjoyed many Halloween birthday parties during his childhood.
Adam grew up in Crete, Illinois, a small rural community. He attended elementary and three years of high school in Crete before transferring to Thornton Township High School, an athletic powerhouse, from which he graduated.
Adam entered the United States Air Force Academy in 1992. He played football at the Prep School and later briefly at the Academy. After graduation from the Academy, Adam entered flight school where he successfully completed training as a C17 pilot.
Adam was assigned to the Charleston Air Force Base in Charleston, South Carolina. He flew numerous combat missions into Afghanistan and Iraq, delivering supplies to remote locations and transporting injured soldiers and war casualties.
After active duty, Adam continued his military service at March Reserve Base in Riverside, California. Adam was hired by FedEx in 2012 and upgraded to a 757 Captain in 2021 where he continued to command aircraft operating around the world.
Adam was a kind compassionate child and man, who freely gave his resources to help others. Adam had many friends throughout his life.
Adam accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior in his teenage years. He was baptized by Rev. Rogers Jackson at the First Baptist Church in University Park, IL
Adam is survived by his mother, Alvinnetta Burks, his father Lawyer Burks II, a brother Lawyer Burks III (Cynthia), a niece Jessica Burks, nephew Jonah Burks, an uncle, Kirk Roberson and his special uncle and aunt, Lee and Lydia Rainer. In addition, he leaves to mourn a host of cousins, extended family members and friends.
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Lt. Colonel Burks service will be live streamed on https://youtu.be/BpSmsr4uZBc
Shavon Hudnall
December 19, 2023
My dear friend. We met in 2008 in Charleston and were very close since that time. Over the past two years we hadn’t spoke as often. Maybe God was preparing me for this. I thought of you today, and that’s when I found out you have gained your wings. You were an absolute amazing human being..you taught me a lot of things. I’m heartbroken to hear you’re no longer with us. I hope that you knew that I loved you and that you were loved by so many. I send my condolences to your family.
December 15, 2023
Adam
We still miss you & your smile so much
Terry O.
November 25, 2023
I´ll always remember Adam´s storytelling and laughter, from our days in Crete. Good guy, gone to soon. RIH bro
SD
November 24, 2023
Adam is one of the greatest people I've ever known It was a honor growing up with him. We had good memories together my friend my brother forever !
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Terry Troutman
May 2, 2023
Adam. We endured so many things together. I will carry your memory and legacy forever. RIP, brother!
Phil Dillingham
March 20, 2023
Adam was a giant smile, Big Daddy barely fit him! Prayers and condolences glad I reconnected with him as he transitioned to FedEx. I crossed paths with him flying the C-17. I remember him helping me at the Air Force Academy. Thoughts and prayers, glad he helped me, thankful he always be a part of me!
Adam & Grandparents
Antoinette Roberson
February 9, 2023
The is a Great Picture of Love
Ratchanee
February 2, 2023
Adam you are a good person, I miss you and thank you for being part of my life.
Ben Jonsson
January 28, 2023
Adam was a friend and mentor to me at my first duty assignment in Charleston, SC, where we both flew C-17s. He gave me pointers on what to do as a new pilot in the squadron. He made a big impact on me, challenged me to challenge myself, and I looked up to him.
Melissa U
January 20, 2023
Una excelente persona, un gran ser humano.Dios te reciba en sus brazos ! Te extrañaremos muchísimo! Dejas un vacío en nuestro corazón al saber de tu partida pero también dejas el cariño que siempre te tuvimos! Amigo descansa en paz! Te recordamos con amor.
Adriana Bravo
January 20, 2023
ADAM descansa en paz ,Gracias por tu generosidad y tu corazón tan grande eres un ángel
Mario Lopez Spencer
January 19, 2023
Adam was a great and excellent person, I will always carry him in my heart. When I met him it was incredible to see the big heart that characterized him and the good sense of kindness towards people. this loss is very painful. My deepest condolences to the entire family. rest in peace my great friend Adam.
Heidi Bucheit
January 13, 2023
I learned of Adam's passing a bit late and am not sure if I am still able to share memories... I am posting this as a test because I would love to write if it is still possible.
Jim Govin
January 6, 2023
Adam, keep it Revin’ up in Heaven. Even though we were in different squadrons and I don’t think I had any classes with Adam. I remember him from 25+ years ago. That says something about his character and impact on people.
Chris Dotur
January 6, 2023
I’m a fellow ‘97 grad, and have fond memories of Big Daddy from all the way back in USAFA basic training and on. He was big and bold and great. I last saw him as I was passing through Charleston as a C-17 pilot in 2003/2004, and he gave me good, encouraging advice for heading to my next training school. Miss him lots. KIR
Chris Wiley
January 6, 2023
I met Big Daddy on June 30th, 1993, our first day of Basic Cadet Training. I was immediately a bit intimidated owing purely to the mass and presence of Adam. His smile just as quickly disarmed any anxiety; I have yet to meet another person with a grin bigger or more infectious than his. His Prep School experience enabled him to promptly get many of us to understand our new environment and united us to work as a team. Whenever I was upset or frustrated, Adam would always reassure me that my "calamities" were bumps along a long road. All of us that were '97 Trolls with Adam are in shock learning of his departure. My grief is lessened knowing that he's among the Lord's angels now looking after us on Earth.
Haley Holm
December 30, 2022
Adam was a friend and colleague flying in Asia... My first time flying in Asia, Adam helped me navigate my schedule and made it known that I could count on him if I needed help.
He was always so generous with his time and such a wonderful human being. He will be remembered and missed.
Scott Hubin
December 30, 2022
I flew with Adam many times in Asia. Humble, enjoyable, and solid come to mind. Yes, an excellent pilot, yes a warrior for our country, but also a big smile and ALWAYS kind, positive words. You will be missed Adam !! You and your family are in my prayers. May the Lord Bless you and keep you.
Michelle Pryor
December 24, 2022
Adam was a great friend! I knew him from the Air Force Academy and lived across the hall from him in CS-04 for two years. His smile and laugh put us all in good spirits even in challenging times. He was an incredibly kind soul who positively impacted the lives of so many people. His spirit and memory will live on in our hearts!
Donna Hinton
December 23, 2022
I first met Adam at my cousin's (Dean & Sharifa´s) Kawanza celebration in the late ´90s. What I most admired about Adam is his love for his mom. He often spoke on how you raised him to respect others. He always lit up speaking of you; it spoke volumes about how he was raised. I can't imagine the pain you and the family are going through. My prayer is the memories of his love for you and his beautiful smile will hold all of you up. ~My sincerest condolences.
Colorado Family
December 22, 2022
Love you Cuz, Love You Nephew -- are the words we hear Adam say. Yes, with his voice and his smile we would hear him say Love you.
We will miss the words of wisdom, the voice of reason, the physical presence but we will not forget.
Somewhere over the rainbow, that bridge that points to a promise from God, we will see you again in all contentment, all glory, all peace, all Love in Jesus Christ
Sharon, Shelton and Brice Franklin
December 22, 2022
Netta our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family.
Dean Townsend
December 22, 2022
I had the pleasure of meeting Adam when my family moved to Crete IL the year he entered high school. He became a "big brother" to my children and foster children as well. As one of his mentors. I was truly blessed to have witnessed his growth and maturation over the years, along with his successful career path in both the Air Force and FedEx.
Adam was the epitome of a "positive role model" who gave of his time and resources generously. He would often express his appreciation for my "pouring into him".
As I have been reflecting on all of the positive memories and exchanges we shared over the years, a song came to mind that captures the essence of who Adam was and his humility:
"No matter how high i get, I'll still be looking up to you"........
Rest in peace&power my brotha.........
Dean Shababa Townsend
Love you Sir...
Deborah McGuane
December 22, 2022
Sir, you were always so generous with your smile and kind words. It was a pleasure to serve with you. Rest in peace Brother.
Sir Thomas Harris
December 22, 2022
My family and I have been and will continue praying for you as well as coming alongside you as you all walk through your process of healing together.
Adam Burks, was truly one of a kind. He would always have a kind word or words to say that would always encourage as well as lift myself and others up. He was a person who would put others first even stop to listen and hear about another’s day, life, promotions, etcHis smile as well as his laughter would brighten up a room and help change its atmosphere.
Adam truly cared for people and saw the good in them even when they couldn’t see it in themselves and you knew he was genuine. My family and I already have been and are missing him. We are truly thankful and grateful to God to have had him be a part of our lives and a part of our family. He was to us more than just a friend. He was my brother. I feel blessed and was blessed to have known Adam R. Burks. Rest now my friend. ❤
Sharan Strange
December 22, 2022
Dear Burks Family,
My heart goes out to you all with deepest condolences in this time of sorrow and grief. May you be comforted by your love for one another and your loving memories of Adam. May his memory be for a blessing. May his soul rest in profound peace. God bless and keep you all in abiding care
With love,
Sharan
Nancy Kumskis
December 22, 2022
My favorite memory of Adam is when he came to get advice from my son ,Scott, about navigating the world of high school football. He was so excited about being on the freshman team but couldn´t get his shoulder pads to fit right Being a fast learner, he went on to a stellar athletic...and academic career. Netta, you must be so proud of both your boys
Nancy K
Chris and Karen Womick
December 22, 2022
Our sincere condolences to Adam's family. Adam will be missed in our Asian domicile, as a Captain, as a fellow pilot and as a dear friend. A proud American and warrior who served in his nation's Air Force, Adam had an influence and an impact which will be with us for a long time. It was great flying with you . Blue skies and tailwinds.
Veronica Peppers
December 21, 2022
My Dearest Netta,
You and your family are in my prayers. Asking the Lord to provide the strength, courage and comfort you need for this journey.
Tracy Allen
December 21, 2022
In loving memory of a wonderful person. I miss your voice and your smile . Miss our talks and our text. You were such a awesome person. Your mom did such a wonderful job raising you. You were definitely one of a kind. Miss you. May you rest in peace. ❤
Burks family you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Elsa Flores-Lloyd
December 21, 2022
My most deepest condolences to the family! May the beautiful memories of his smile bring you comfort during this most difficult time. May God's love wrap itself around each of you and bring you peace. May Adam's soul be resting in the peace of our Lord and Savior!
Brittany Rainer
December 21, 2022
Aunt Netta and Family,
I feel blessed to have met Adam while he was here. He was kind, encouraging, goal oriented, and truly loved his family. He always had a good message to share before ending each interaction and that truly blessed me and Craig as we began our married life. I pray God will continue to hold each of you and help you get through this hard season.
Love,
Brittany Rainer
Brenda Glover
December 21, 2022
Netta and Family,
Please know our thoughts, hearts and prayers go out to you and the family during this very, very difficult time. No words can express or alleviate what you are experiencing with your losses. Our prayer is that at some point the wonderful thoughts and happy memories of Adam as a child up through adulthood will put some joy and sunshine back in your hearts. We pray that God will restore your spirit and strengthen you. Love, James and Brenda Glover & Family
Ella
December 21, 2022
I will always treasure our friendship my Angel.....love you..will always oray for your soul..
Daniel DiCesare
December 21, 2022
Adam was a rare, beautiful soul. He was consistently positive, and always had something good to say. His smile, genuine and infectious. Adam had a rare quality most people do not possess, empathy and understanding by way of being a great listener. I feel fortunate to have known Adam. The world was a better place with him present, yet his positive influence on me will always be remembered. Gods' speed, my friend.
Karen Hughes
December 20, 2022
My heartfelt condolences and prayers to the Burks family. I've known Adam for 30+ years. He was my high school sweetheart and prom date. He was always the perfect gentleman. He always stayed in touch with me over the years. I am heartbroken. He will always hold a special place in my heart.
Jo H.
December 20, 2022
My deepest sympathy to the Burks Family for the loss of your loved one, Adam, and pray God gives you comfort, peace and strength during this difficult time.
Antoinette Roberson
December 20, 2022
LOVE YOU ADAM, Rest In Power!
Rob Pearce
December 19, 2022
On behalf of the 317AS in Charleston SC, I would like to send my condolences to the Burk's family. Adam was a part of our Squadron between his transition from Active Duty to the Reserves at March AFB. His positive attitude and infectious smile will stick with me forever. Rest in peace buddy! Until we meet again.
Lucy Stallworth
December 19, 2022
Netta and The Burks Family,
May God continue to comfort you all during this difficult time. Earth has no sorrow that Heaven cannot heal. I will always remember the fond stories Netta shared about Adam.
You all are in my Prayers
Don Macintyre
December 19, 2022
Adam, you will be missed by many, including me. Your infectious smile and hilarious laugh will always be things that I remember about you. We had some great talks. And I will always appreciate you as a good friend. We'll talk another time.
Don Macintyre
John Gurrieri
December 19, 2022
Prayers and candles for Adam’s family. I met Adam in 2004 while on a mission where he was running a tactics shop. He was always a welcoming face. He was energetic, full of life, and someone that made you feel good. We would bump into each other as he joined the reserves and then at FedEx. I was always in awe of his kindness yet his physical stature. Adam could pump out some push-ups. My last time of seeing him was in the training center and once again, he had a big smile waiting for me. Adam you will be missed.
Tommie Gipson
December 19, 2022
When I first met my cousin Adam, he was a cadet at the prep school at the Airforce Academy. Since I was a distant cousin and lived in Colorado springs, when he had the time, he would always come by and he, I, my wife and kids would always have a good time on the weekends he had off. He took his studies seriously. He loved to make you laugh with his sharp wit. It was an opportunity for him to get away from the Academy and be with something familiar. Since we are 10 years apart, in age , when I say the boy liked my BBQ, I don't mean any disrespect. Adam was a man in every sense of the word. The man could just put the BBQ away. Adam was a kind and compassionate human being. He would always tell me " cousin Tom, you never know what is going on in a person's cockpit, so you should be understating and not be too judgmental". He liked to impress me with pilot talk. I've always tried to live by those words in spirit but maybe not always in practice. Adam had a lot of little pearls he used to drop when we had conversations. My deepest condolences to my extended family. I love you and may God comfort you during this time of grief and sorrow.
Larry Guichard
December 19, 2022
I’ll miss Adam greatly. I flew with Adam throughout Asia on many occasions. He was a truly great man with an inspiring life story. He was an inspiration to many, always smiling and never an unkind word. My deepest condolences to his family.
Edward O'Brien
December 18, 2022
I flew with Adam numerous times at FedEx. He was very a very dedicated professional and always gave his best. We became close and it was always great to see him in various places around the world, even when we were not assigned to the same flights. I will miss seeing him around these skies.
Jeff Menna
December 18, 2022
Don’t think I’ve ever met a more genuine, nice, and compassionate human being. I got to know Adam flying and jumpseating all over Asia. It was always such a pleasure to talk with Adam as he was so deeply engaged in listening to other people and learning what they had to say. He was such an inquisitive man and that’s rare these days. Adam will definitely be missed by his colleagues here at FedEx. Nickel on the grass.
Jim DaRonco
December 17, 2022
I’ll always remember his big smile, we will miss him
Amy Gangolea
December 17, 2022
Your smile, upbeat attitude and compassion were not lost on those who knew you. I always appreciated your warmth and support. You went out of your way to call and check in. And that infectious laugh! Thank you, Adam- you will be missedmany blessings to the entire Burks Family
Susie Latvala
December 16, 2022
Only the good die young my friend! You did a lot with your years. Your smile was always infectious, as was your big heart. It was always a pleasure flying with you, and I know you’ll bring light and life to whatever your next calling is! Namaste Adam, thank you for touching my life, and bests in the rest of your journey. ❤
Amy Rae-Contreras
December 16, 2022
Adam I was not ready for you to leave this world. Your heart & spirit were so big. You cared deeply for the people around you. You touched the lives of so many. You were an officer who took the time to care for & mentor enlisted. The squadron was a better place from your relationships! We had so many conversations about life & your purpose. Your mom did a great job! I felt like I knew her because of all the talks we had. You were not just a brother & friend in the military you became a part of our family. They way you always reached out to ask about Nic & Riley meant so much to me. Your visit in July was awesome! Great talks & great meals! Your presence will be missed but your light will shine on. Until we meet again, rest my friend
Aaron Hagan
December 16, 2022
Adam was such a fun, positive, and enjoyable person to be around. I met him when he was preparing his transition from the Air Force to his airline career, and later I had the privilege of getting to fly around Asia with him as my first officer. He was kind, loved people from all over the world, and greeted everyone he met with genuine smile and warmth. He served his country with honor, and mentored many younger people not just towards the military but towards their own professional and fitness goals. Anyone who ever saw him doing his kickboxing training also felt a little safer when we were out on the town in Asia--he was a kind man but also a capable warrior for his country and a great wingman to have on any adventure. You knew he had your back, and I was honored to be his friend. Our community is going to be a lesser place without his smile and enthusiasm.
Kim Daniels
December 16, 2022
I met Adam when he was going through the interview process for his job at FedEx. I will always remember him by how kind he was and his big smile. Just this year I saw him in Memphis for training and he was still carrying the same smile and humility. I will miss him.
Tommy Williamson
December 16, 2022
To Mama Burks, Law, and the entire Burks family, my deepest condolences for your loss. My dad was a young teen in combat and had several family members who served. So, my sincere respect and admiration to Adam for his service.
May God’s love embrace you at this time.
Jonathan Askins
December 16, 2022
Adam, you were always a compassionate person and amazing human being. Your smile was infection and laugh filled the room. Thank you for the friendship.
Mike Major
December 16, 2022
Adam was a man that when he walked in the room everyone knew he was there. His enthusiasm for life, his love of friendship and his willingness to sacrifice for those he knew, and more importantly, those he didn’t know will always stand out to me about Adam. Thank you Adam for that big smile, for your devotion to duty, your positive example to all who knew you and for your friendship. You are missed.
Capt Jon Omey, FedEx
December 15, 2022
Adam was a great man and a patriot. I am blessed to have known him. So sorry for your loss. Rest In Peace my friend.
Kathleen and John Oedzes
December 15, 2022
Dear Burks familyMay God keep his protecting arms around you through this difficult time. We were neighbors in Crete, IL. In the 70’s. Our son, Brad Oedzes, was friends with Adam throughout their lives. They shared the same birthday, although a different year. Brad Oedzes 11-01-75. Adam joined Brad many times for his birthday parties. They both went on to the USAFA and later became commercial pilots. They spoke shortly after Thanksgiving. My thoughts of Adamkind, that big smile, hardworking and successful. Rest in peace in the Church Triumphant. Our deepest sympathy.
Mark Kilgore
December 15, 2022
I will always remember how genuine, committed, and thoughtful Adam was with his friends and classmates. I am so grateful to have known him in this life and to be able to call him a friend. My heart breaks for his friends and family.
August Koster
December 15, 2022
Adam was a pleasure to work with and will be missed.
Susan Bessellieu and Family
December 14, 2022
My heart is filled with sorrow at the loss of Adam. I pray for his family and all of us who loved Adam and need strength during this difficult time.
Susan Bessellieu
Brandt House
December 14, 2022
I thank God for Adam in my life and he will be forever missed. May the memories of his amazing life ease the grief we all feel in this moment.
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