Donald Edwin Burnett

Donald Edwin Burnett, 62, passed away at his residence on October 21, 2012, after a 2 1/2 year battle with cancer. He was born February 27, 1950 in Kingston, NY, to Fred and Eva Kouhoupt Burnett. He graduated with a degree in Landscape Architecture from Syracuse University and was a member of the American Society of Landscape Architects. Prior to his illness, he was employed at Balsam Mountain Preserve. He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Lorie Smith Burnett; brothers, Bob Burnett of Waynesville, and Fred Burnett of Seattle, Washington; sons Josh Burnett and Greg Burnett; daughter, Allison Burnett Pineda; and 6 grandchildren. Don is preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Carol Burnett Fletcher. Don was a faithful husband, a sacrificial father, and a gracious friend. He was a committed member of Alliance Bible Church, serving over the years as both elder and deacon. He will be remembered as a humble servant and a dedicated follower of his Savior, Jesus Christ. A service of Thanksgiving to God for Don's life will be held at Appalachian Funeral Services of Sylva on Thursday October 25, 2012 at 7:00 pm, with the Reverend Mike Barr and Dr. Andrew Smith officiating. The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 pm prior to the service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Heritage Christian Academy of Sylva, PO Box 2138, Sylva, NC 28779. . .