James "Jim" N. Burkett

James “Jim” N. Burkett, age 68, of Topeka, KS, passed away on Saturday, January 9, 2021 at The University of Kansas Health System-St. Francis Campus. Jim was born the son of James C. and Anna Laura (James) Burkett on October 4, 1952 in Topeka, KS. He was a 1971 graduate from Rossville High School. He served in the United States Military. Jim worked for the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company for 24 years. He enjoyed fishing and riding his motorcycle. Jim will be remembered for always willing to help and lend a hand to anyone in need. Survivors include his children; son, Derek Burkett and his wife Heather; daughter, Racheal Czirr Alexander and her husband Jeff; daughter, Jennifer Bertels and her husband Loren; daughter, Tawyna Butler and her husband Lee; son, Jason Gillenwater; significant other, Margie Wheeler; sister, Donna Bissonnette and her husband Fred; 23 grandchildren, Gavin, Tre, Jade, A.J., Brooklynn, Jazlin, Jade, Evan, Lindsay, Drake, Christopher, Jessie, Breanna, Colby, Riley, Claire, Cassandra, Adam, Jayden, Stella, Daniel, Paul and Joshua. He was preceded in death by his parents; grandson, Colby McGrath; step-mother, Helen Burkett; grandparents, Jessie Lee and Medie Sue Burkett. Cremation has taken place. A memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, January 23, 2021 from 3-5:00 P.M., at the Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home. To share a memory or to leave condolences, please visit, www.brennanmathenafh.com. Arrangements entrusted to Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave., Topeka, KS 66603.