Malcolm W. Burnett Jr.

Malcolm William Burnett Jr., 90 of Wheeling, formerly Nortbrook Illinois, passed away on February 8, 2025. Born on October 6, 1934, in Indianapolis, Indiana, Malcolm led a a life marked by dedication to family, service to his country and community, and a passion for adventure.
Malcolm pursued higher education with distinction, earning a bachelor's degree from University of Notre Dame in 1956 and a law degree from Northwestern University in 1963. He went on to practice law for over 40 years, building a respected career rooted in integrity and commitment. Before embarking on his legal career, Malcolm served as Lieutenant and Frogman in the U.S. Navy. His dedication to service extended beyond the military into his community and faith. He taught religious education for several years and served as both a Eucharistic minister and minister of care at St. Norbert Catholic Church in Norhbrook Illinois. Beyond his professional and service-oriented endeavors, Malcolm embraced life with enthusiasm. He was an avid curler and a proud member of the Chicago Curling Club. He found joy in skiing, reading, camping and traveling the world with his wife- always eager for new experiences. Known for his hospitality, he delighted in bartending for family and friends, Bloody Marys, French 75s and Homemade EggNog as a few of his specialties.
Malcolm cherished time spent with loved ones. He is survived by his wife of 63 years Mary (née Milota), and their children: Laura (Andy) Farrissey, Kevin (Janet) Burnett, Mary Burnett, Kathy (Bill) Sullivan, Patrick (Toni) Burnett, and Kristin Burnett. He was a proud Papa of Lindsey and John Farrissey; Robert Burnett; Becca(Jason) DeFrates; Katie Burnett; Billy, Meaghan, and Michael Sullivan; Liam Burnett; and Maggie Hallenborg; as well as great-grandchildren Jesse Burnett and Hudson DeFrates.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Malcolm and Winifred Burnett; his sister Dolores Gruppe; his daughter Colleen and his nephews Billy and Michael Gruppe.
A Funeral Mass will be held on February 14, 2025, at St. Norbert Catholic Church, located at 1809 Walters Ave., Northbrook, Illinois 60062. The service will begin at 10:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital would be appreciated. Malcolm's warmth, humor, and adventurous spirit will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his memory bring comfort to those who loved him.
Livestream the Mass: https://www.northbrookcatholic.church/livestream.html