Michael Burnett
Michael Dale Burnett, 59, Decatur, Tennessee, chief operating officer and director of printing at Dockins Graphics, passed away unexpectedly on August 6, 2022, while on his property where he was building his dream home.
To briefly sum up the life of someone who meant so much to so many people feels impossible. Mike was a caring, thoughtful, and endlessly generous father, grandfather, father-in-law, son, son-in-law, brother, uncle, and truest friend. He was a guiding light and grounding anchor to many and loved by all. He relaxed in Grayton Beach, Fl., wore out I-75 (especially on trips to see family in Michigan and Ohio), enjoyed spending time with his dear friends and family in Tennessee, loved every minute with his grandsons, and provided everyone an ample supply of memes, technological devices, Trader Joe’s treats, and kindness. His grandson Walter was his best friend and sidekick. He always had Walter’s favorite sourdough bread from the local bakery and ice cream sandwiches for dessert. To simply say he will be missed feels insignificant. He has left a hole in our lives that can never be filled.
Mike is survived by his children, Andy (Hanna) Burnett and Emily (T. Layne) Ringstaff; his grandchildren, Walter and Bram Ringstaff; his mother, Betty Burnett; his siblings and siblings-in-law, Tammy Veselsky, Leo Burnett II, Larry Burnett, Tim Cox, and Ken Cox; his parents-in-law, Sharon and Bill Schaefer and Walt and Karen Cox; and many other family members and countless friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Leo Gordon Burnett; his sister, Debbie Burnett; and his loving wife of 36 years, Linda, who passed away in November 2020.
Family and friends are invited to email Emily Ringstaff at emilyringstaff@gmail.com for details about an upcoming memorial service for Mike.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Austin Hatcher Foundation (one of Mike's favorite organizations).
Arrangements are by Cremation Center of Chattanooga, 1345 Hickory Valley Road, Chattanooga, Tn. 37421, 423 362-5999.