Christopher David Burkett, 46, of Churchill, passed away peacefully at home Saturday, Feb. 5, 2022. Chris was the beloved son of Gertrude C. "Gaye" Burkett and the late David E. Burkett. He is survived by his mother; his sister, Katherine Curry; his nieces, Julia and Lauren Curry; and his loving friends. Chris graduated from Woodland Hills High School in 1994, where he was actively involved in the musical theater, choir and drama departments. His love of film took him to Manhattan, where he attended the School of Visual Arts and graduated in 2000 with a B.F.A. in film and video. Chris later earned a master's degree in school counseling from Hunter College in 2007, which allowed him to further refine his natural gift for connecting with and caring for people. He loved New York City life, especially his time as manager for his friends' band The Boroughs, scheduling shows and promoting their records, and his volunteer work with the New York office of the Children's Tumor Foundation. His return to Pittsburgh included a return to his enthusiastic in-person support of the sports teams he loved, especially the Penguins. Chris approached life with a vast reserve of perseverance, good humor and compassion, despite the challenges he faced during his lifelong struggle with neurofibromatosis. He had a rare, innate ability to listen, to care and to connect with seemingly everyone he encountered in a genuine, thoughtful way. He will also be remembered for his great intellectual curiosity, his interest in and knowledge of film and sports, and his sharp wit and insight. The family is grateful for the many people who enriched Chris's life: his doctors, therapists, caregivers, neighbors and wonderful friends. Through CORE (Center for Organ Recovery and Education), Chris was able to give the gift of life by his posthumous donation of tissue for research and education. Donations in memory of Chris can be made to The Children's Tumor Foundation (www.ctf.org), CORE (www.core.org) or the charity of your choice. Friends are invited to attend a memorial service at WOLFE MEMORIAL LLC, Forest Hills Chapel, 3604 Greensburg Pike, Pittsburgh PA 15221, on Saturday, June 11, 2022, at 11 a.m. An open house will follow at the Burkett residence. www.wolfepgh.com.

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Published by Tribune Review on Feb. 10, 2022.

Memories and Condolences
for Christopher Burkett

9 Entries

John P Eichmiller

May 18, 2022

I will always remember Chris for his positive outlook in the face of his hardships. He was always interested and concerned with how others were doing, and was a fantastic conversationalist. I am glad for the time that I spent with him watching movies, discussing music and sports. I will miss you my friend.

Steve and Cathy Mlinac

February 15, 2022

Katherine, we are so very sad to learn of your brother´s passing. Although we never met him, he seems to have been a wonderful person, and we are sure a loving brother. His obituary is quite a tribute to his life and struggles. I know it has been a long time between visits but if you ever want to get together when you may find yourself in Pittsburgh, let us know (4121491-8755). We hope this finds you and the twins in good health. Take care.

Sara Schraeter-Mowers

February 14, 2022

Gaye,
I am so so sorry for your loss. Chris was such a bright light of humor and friendship. I posted the following on my Facebook page in memory of Chris:
February 5th, a light went out. The man I always referred to as my first husband, Chris Burkett , passed away. The joke that would last for years was due to a hilarious assumption made by an usher outside of the Regal Union Square movie theater. I used that to throw a huge fit and get the theater to bring out a chair so that Chris could sit in line.We were waiting to see Attack of the Clones on opening night. For the next 19 years, even after he moved back home, we kept it going, and I would have to explain to people, including my in-laws, why someone they didn't know was referring to me as his wife when he wished me a happy birthday . I wish I knew this passed December would be the last December he wished his wife a happy birthday and I thanked my "first husband". Chris, I will always adore you and miss you. There is definitely a hole in my heart that can't ever be filled.

Janet Stephens

February 14, 2022

Chris was a wonderful young man. He was in my drama class and he was very talented. He was loved by all the teachers and his peers. He will be greatly missed.

Lou and Dan Duerring

February 13, 2022

Gaye so very sorry for your loss

Lois Forman

February 11, 2022

So sorry to hear about Chris's passing. He was a very sweet young man who died long before his time. Rip Chris.

Karen (Speece) Milheim

February 10, 2022

I am so, so sorry for this terrible news. Chris was such a wonderful friend and will be sorely missed.

Shelby Wherry

February 9, 2022

I have so many wonderful memories of Chris, especially our days performing together first at our church, and then while we were in high school. I'm thankful that our friendship continued into adulthood. He will be missed by so many. Gaye, Catherine, and girls, I am thinking of you with love and prayers.

Jason Spiegelman

February 9, 2022

Chris bore his challenges with class and grace. Never one to complain, his sense of humor and sardonic wit were infectious. I visited him in the hospital several years ago and I might as well have gone to a comedy club. When I lost my father Chris honored me by asking his mother to bring him to the funeral. I'll say a prayer of thanks for his final peace and rest, and will remember him most fondly.

I ask that his family please contact me when they have a chance.

Jason Spiegelman
[email protected]

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