Frank Burtnett, an educator, counselor, consultant, and author, passed away unexpectedly on August 23, 2024 in Rockport, ME. He was born in Hollidaysburg, PA in 1940. Although his legal residence was in Springfield, VA, his happy place was at his harbor home in Rockport, ME.

Frank graduated in 1962 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Shippensburg University. He went on to earn a Master of Arts and a Doctor of Education degree in Counseling from George Washington University.

In his early career he worked for Fairfax County Public Schools and the Pennsylvania Department of Education. Later he became involved in professional associations, serving as the Executive Director of the National Association for College Admission Counseling and as the Associate Executive Director of the American Counseling Association. Ultimately he established a consulting practice called Education Now that focused on assisting organizations in designing and improving their programs and services.

Frank received numerous accolades throughout his career including the Distinguished Alumnus Award from Shippensburg University. He was named a Fellow of the American Counseling Association in recognition of his contributions to the counseling profession. The National Association of Personnel Services honored his 25 years of service by inducting him into their Hall of Fame and establishing a scholarship in his name. He took great pride in these recognitions just as much as achieving the rank of Eagle Scout at the age of fifteen.

Frank had a strong commitment to preparing future counselors and was affiliated with various graduate schools in the Washington, DC area including a lengthy tenure at Marymount University. Additionally, he authored three books that addressed educational and career issues. His fourth book, Navigating the Senior Years, focuses on the challenges of entering and transitioning through the later stages of life, offering a series of strategies to help navigate these changes.

In his earlier years, Frank played tennis, golf, and coached numerous Little League baseball teams. He never missed his monthly poker game with friends where he always made his famous chili. Frank was a season ticket holder for the Washington Redskins and was an avid Penn State fan. Above all else, he enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife and "adventure partner" of 62 years, Susan; their children, Kevin Burtnett (Brenda) of Oakton, VA, and Kim Cumbie (Robert) of Atlanta, GA; and his four cherished grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life for Dr. Frank Burtnett will be held at the Springfield Country Club in Springfield, VA on November 16 at 1 p.m. Contributions in his memory can be made to the ACA Foundation, located at 6101 Stevenson Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22304.

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

Published by The Washington Post on Nov. 10, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
for Frank Burtnett

2 Entries

Gordon and Elaine Rondeau

August 22, 2025

Dearest Susan, Kevin and Kim! Words cannot express how the world has had the privilege and pleasure of experiencing the Joy of knowing and loving your Husband , Father and Grandfather, colleague and friend. OMG! Where were we that the news is just coming to us now, more than one year later! Susan, we hang our heads in sorrow that we were not there for you because we always considered Frank to be among our closest friends on a casual level since we first met at Fairlington Complex, when you initiated what we called the Supper Club way back in the year 1967. Frank was the life of the evening when we each took turns hosting the gathering, once a month. We recall when he prepared Bananas Foster, his half a liter of blazing cognac on the bananas was a hit and nearly reached the ceiling! Frank was always sincere, a fantastic friend to have. He was humble about his accomplishments, never bragged about himself! It was not until we read his memory page did we realize what a superb scholar, author and college professor he was. Frank was always close to our hearts and although we did not often visit you two as our waning years advanced, he and you have always been close to our hearts! Entrepreneur, scholar, educator, loyal husband, Father, Grandfather, devoted friend , adventurer, friend. We shall hold his memory close to us in our minds and hearts until we meet again! Frank must be having a great time, teaching the angels how to prepare their syllabus to teach the souls in Heaven! God bless you and your family. Love,
Gordon and Elaine Rondeau

December 13, 2024

May God's promise found in John 6:40, of the hope to see our loved ones again, comfort your heart and give you peace, strength, and hope in the days ahead.

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