Michael Edward Burkett

Michael Edward Burkett was born December 28, 1957 in Chicago, Illinois to Earl Burkett and Helen Jackson Burkett, both who preceded him in death. He was one of three siblings — his sister, Sharon, and younger brother, Phillip (who also preceded him in death). Michael attended Lane Technical High School in Chicago, Illinois, where he was an outstanding football player, which earned him a scholarship to University of Michigan. Michael worked in information technology for more then 40 years, ending his career at Fineos, which he joined a year before his death. Michael was known for his infectious smile, positive outlook, and heartwarming laugh. He loved spending time in the kitchen cooking for family and friends, watching horror movies and true crime shows, and listening to music. He was an audiophile extraordinaire, with a deep appreciation of all forms of music especially hip hop and WuTang Klan (WuTang Forever!). RZA was his favorite member so much so that he had a well-worn t-shirt that bore their symbol and he named his wire fox terrier RZA. Though he lived in Atlanta for more than 30 years, Michael never forgot his Chicago roots and always considered himself a Westside boy (Westside!). But above everything, Michael viewed his most important and joyous role in life as being a dad to his daughter, Sinclaire Nicole, and son, Michael Joshua (MJ). He believed his gift to his children was to support them, encourage them, and make sure they knew they were loved. In this role, he excelled. Michael suddenly departed this life on Sunday, January 31. He leaves behind to mourn his passing, his beloved children, Sinclaire and MJ, his former wife and their mother, Rita Rogers Burkett, his sister, Sharon (Paul) Armer, his nephews and nieces, Vance (Tina) Primus, Latrice (Kiwand) King-Brown, Marquis (Evelyn Champagne) Watts, Phillip P. Burkett (Barbara), and Anton (DaiSha) Burkett. His devoted partner, Debra “Debbie” James and her children, Milton Suggs and Jordan James-McCain, to whom he was a second dad. He will be greatly missed and never forgotten by a host of aunts, uncles, great nieces and nephews, cousins, friends, and colleagues.

Tributes

Michael Edward Burkett

December 28, 1957 - January 31, 2021