BURLESON, John Robert – of Davison, MI, age 76, passed away Thursday, February 13, 2025. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 1 PM Friday, February 21, 2025 at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 404 North Dayton Street, Davison, MI 48423; Rev. Fr. Denis Spitzley celebrant. Interment in St. John Catholic Cemetery. The family will receive visitors 12-7 PM Thursday, February 20, 2025 at Allen Funeral Home, 9136 Davison Road, Davison, MI 48423 and 12-1 PM Friday, February 21, 2025 at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. A Rosary will be prayed 6 PM Thursday, February 20, 2025 at Allen Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association , Charter Senior Living Memory Care, or Flint Regional Science and Engineering Fair in John’s memory.
John was born in Grants Pass, OR on January 4, 1949, son of the late John and Irene (Marshall) Burleson. A proud graduate of St. Michael Catholic High School, Class of 1967, John went on to earn his Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Michigan in 1972. On August 22, 1970, he married the love of his life, Gail McTiernan, in Flint, MI, beginning a partnership filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support for each other throughout their years together. John’s career was one of dedication and excellence. He retired in 2008 after 37 years of service at AC Sparkplug/Delphi, where he made his mark as a Senior Experimental Chemist/Physicist in the Materials Analysis Lab. His contributions were immeasurable, and his work left a lasting impact on those who had the privilege of working alongside him. In his personal life, John was a man of many passions. He was a Master Bridge player and leader of a Duplicate Bridge League, where his skill and strategic mind earned him the respect of his peers. As a HAM radio operator with the call sign KA8ARF, he connected with people from all walks of life and served as a storm spotter with SKYWARN. John was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, where he found community and solace. He was an avid boater and kayaker, enjoying time on the water and exploring nature’s beauty. Whether canoeing, snowmobiling, or simply relaxing at his beloved cottage in Indian River, MI, John cherished every opportunity to spend time outdoors, making memories with his loved ones. Known affectionately as “Mr. Fix-it,” John had a remarkable talent for repairing just about anything, a skill that endeared him to all who knew him. His love for animals and technology only further showcased his kind and curious nature. John’s family and friends will always remember him as a loving, dedicated, and generous man whose presence brought joy to all. His legacy of love, kindness, and ingenuity lives on in the hearts of those he touched. John will be greatly missed and never forgotten.
John is survived by his wife, Gail Burleson; 4 children, Matthew (Megan) Burleson, Maureen Burleson-Dormire, Amanda (Eric Nulf) Burleson and Wendy (Andy) Argue; 8 grandchildren, Lukas Argue, Makella Argue, Alyssa Dormire, Justin Argue, Logan Burleson, Travis Argue, Madeline Burleson and Alex Burleson; honorary sister, Jane Tol; many other loving family members and good friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Irene Burleson; 2 sisters, Joanne Burleson and Mary Burleson.