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It is with mixed emotions, we announce the passing of Burton J. Parsons, a Devoted Husband, Loving Father, Grandpa, Great Grandpa, and Cherished Uncle, who passed away peacefully on December 29, 2024 at the age of 87. Born in Evart, Michigan, Burton was known for his unwavering commitment to family, kindness, generosity, strong work ethic along with his passion for flying, horses, and motorcycles. Burton is survived by his Beloved Wife, Jacqueline, and his Children, Burton Ray (Dawn) & Jennifer (Dale), along with his Grandchildren: Garret, Austin (Madison), Samuel, Skyler, & Wylie and his Great Grandchildren, Stefan and Everley.
Burton grew up on a farm in Evart Michigan and worked to save money and earned his pilot's license at 16 years old. In October of 1956, Burton joined the US Air Force and was an Instrument Specialist on B-47 for 4 years in Georgia. Burton finished his training as a Cosmetologist during his stay in Georgia and went on to become an accomplished Hair Stylist winning second in the World in Chicago Illinois at an International Competition. Burton's love for flying pushed him to the level of an accomplished aviator earning an Airline Transport Pilot's certification. In addition, he earned Airplane Multiengine Land, Commercial Privileges, Airplane Single Engine Land & Sea, and Rotorcraft-Helicopter. Burton earned an Instructor's license for Airplane Single and Multiengine. Burton also obtained a British Flying Machine License in Bermuda. Burton would always tell his son "What one man can do, another can do".
Burton accepted Jesus Christ as his savior. When Burton was 7 years old, he was hospitalized with a burst appendix. He overheard the Doctors saying he would not live. Burton recalls praying to Jesus to save him and promise if Jesus did, he would follow Jesus the rest of his life. Burton knew grace is a free gift that cannot be earned and that we do not deserve it. Because we all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. God is a loving God, but He is also a just God. God does not want to punish us, but He must punish sin. So, God sent his one and only Son to die in our place for our sins redeeming us. It takes real faith, not fake or pretend faith.
A Celebration of Life for Burton J. Parsons will be held on January 25 from 1:00pm to 3:00pm with a meal at First Baptist Church of St Johns at 512 S. Whittemore St, St Johns, MI 48879.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to go towards his Wife, Jacqueline. Send any monetary gifts to: Jacqueline Parsons at 1371 W. Herbison Rd, Dewitt, MI 48820. Online condolences may be made at www.lehmanfuneralhomes.com.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Burton J. Parsons, please visit our floral store.