Burnett, Tom G. 1951-2025 St. Joseph, Mo.
Tom Gregory Burnett, 73, of St. Joseph, passed away on March 31, 2025. He was born on Sept. 1, 1951, in St. Joseph, to Theron and Etta (Zysset) Burnett. He was a member of The Pentecostals of St. Joseph Church.
Tom married Michelle (McDonald) Hunt in 1972. Though they divorced, twice, they remained lifelong friends and always a part of each other’s lives.
Tom was a true jack-of-all-trades, yet somehow, he mastered them all. There was nothing he couldn’t fix, and he took pride in figuring out how things worked. He had a long and dedicated career in machine maintenance, working at several locations. Most notably, he served as The Scale Inspector for the Chicago Northern Railroad and worked at Seitz, Armour, Quaker Oats, St. Joseph Packaging, and Tyson. Through his many years of work, Tom built lasting friendships that he truly appreciated.
Tom’s passions were as varied as his talents. He enjoyed watching Sponge Bob with his granddaughters, drawing, riding a Harley, collecting movies, practicing Tae Kwon Do (earning a black belt) and gymnastics. He also never minded spending time at the casino. But above all, his greatest joy was listening to his children play music.
Tom had a generous heart. He welcomed many to live in his home, hosted Sunday family dinners, and never turned down a good party.
He had a significant impact on the St. Joseph music scene. He supported many local bands and helped several talented musicians get their start.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Survivors include his children, Tommy Burnett (Jenny) and Melissa Burnett (Rick); grandchildren, Paige Burnett (Tavo), Lilla Horn, Natalie Burnett, Isabel Miester; sisters, Connie Frakes, Joy King; brother, Bobby Burnett; sister-in-law, Debbie Burnett; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, friends, and coworkers.
To honor Tom’s love for local talent, consider supporting a local band by attending a show in the coming weeks.
Services will be held at Heaton-Bowman-Smith & Sidenfaden Chapel Saturday, April 5, 2025, at 11 a.m. with Pastor Rex Arbuckle officiating and Interment at Blakely Cemetery to follow. Visitation for Tom will be held at our chapel as well on Friday, April 4, 2025, from 6 to 8 p.m. As published in the St. Joseph News-Press.
