With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our father John Charles Burkett, who went to sleep on February 24, 2026, at the age of 83. 

Born on December 1, 1942, John lived a life defined by love, family, and cherished memories. John was predeceased by the love of his life, Sallie Burkett of 53 years, his daughter, Kimberly Kleinman (Norm) and his mother, Adele Burkett. 

He leaves behind a legacy of love through his daughters, Deborah Leckey and Sharon Alberti (John); his long time partner Elaine Brinn and family and his brothers, George, Lee and James (Karin) Burkett. His spirit lives on through his five grandchildren—Jonathan Leckey (Sarah), Stefanie DePalma (Franco), Jacqueline Bogni (Ben), John Frankie, and Sallie Alberti and his ten great-grandchildren, Dublyn, Dacen and Daelyn DePalma, Annie and Evie Leckey and Bella, Braxton, Bronson, Brock, and Braden Bogni, who brought him immense joy. 

John graduated from Encina Highschool and loved racing cars at Sacramento Raceway when he was a young man. After high school, he married his wife Sallie and had three daughters. He went to work for Sears for the next 30 years and was the top salesman in the West, often winning many awards. He also loved driving fast cars and taking road trips to Las Vegas and Los Angeles. Later in life after his wife passed, he met Elaine who he cared for deeply. 

Family and friends are invited to a service honouring Johns life on Saturday, March 28, at 10:00 a.m. at East Lawn Memorial Park, 4300 Folsom Blvd, followed by a Celebration of Life on the premises.