Gerald Enis "Jerry" Burnett

Gerald "Jerry" Enis Burnett, of Crandon, passed away Friday, February 6, 2026, at Tomahawk Health Services with his family by his side. He was 74 years old.

Jerry was born May 10, 1951, in Waukesha, to Donald Burnett and Elaine (McGeshick) Burnett.

He proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, completing three tours with the 101st Airborne Division. During his service, Jerry participated in Forward Air Control (FAC) operations as a communications officer, playing a critical role in coordinating battlefield communications. He was a survivor of the historic Hamburger Hill conflict in the A S u Valley of South Vietnam near the Laotian border. Through his actions, he assisted in saving the lives of fellow American soldiers.

In 1994, Jerry was reunited with one of the men he helped save, Dan King, an Oneida Tribal member. The two men formed a lasting and meaningful friendship.

Following his honorable discharge from the military, Jerry lived and worked in California, where he was employed as a mail carrier and also worked for the railroad before later returning to Wisconsin.

Jerry was an avid Harley-Davidson enthusiast who loved road trips, especially to Sturgis and the California Redwoods. He enjoyed downhill skiing and harvesting wild rice. He also participated in traditional tribal fishing, spearing, and netting, particularly in the Mille Lacs area of Minnesota.

Jerry's Native American name was Osawaw Nemeke, meaning Yellow Thunderbird.

He is survived by his sisters, Connie Gagliano, Barbara Burnett, Jodie Burnett, Linda Brunk, and Tammy Burnett; his brothers, Larry Burnett, Michael Burnett, and Donald Burnett; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

In addition to his parents, Jerry was preceded in death by his brothers, Richard Burnett, Cary Burnett, Tim "Smutt" Burnett, and Bruce Burnett.

Native American services will be held Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at the Mole Lake Sokaogon Chippewa Cultural Center. Visitation will begin Monday, February 9, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. at the Cultural Center.