Dennis C. Burtnette

Dennis Clyde “Buddy” Burtnette, 70, of Shabbona, Illinois, passed away on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at Kishwaukee Hospital in DeKalb, surrounded by his loving family.

Buddy was born on February 16, 1954, in Elgin, Illinois, to Ralph and Marion (Howard) Burtnette. He is survived by his mother, Marion Schlindwein; his siblings Daniel (Nancy) of Maple Park, Carleen (Chris) Deitz of Wisconsin, and Laura (Joseph) Sinnaeve of Gilberts; and many cherished nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father Ralph and brother Michael.

After graduating high school, Buddy enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, where he proudly served at Camp Lejeune and Okinawa. He built roads and trained as an equipment operator. Following his military service, he joined the Local 150 Union as a Heavy Equipment Operator.

Buddy pursued his education at Lincoln College and Southern Illinois University, earning a degree in Aviation Management, reflecting his love for flying airplanes. Later in life, Buddy fulfilled a dream by purchasing a small farm in Shabbona, where he enjoyed gardening and working on his tractors.

Known for his adventurous spirit, Buddy was a devoted Marine and a loving son, brother, uncle, and friend.

Visitation will take place on Sunday, December 8, 2024, from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Malone Funeral Home, 324 E. State Street (Route 38), Geneva.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, December 9, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 2900 E. Main Street, St. Charles, with Father Vargas officiating. A luncheon will follow before a Military Burial at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, Illinois.

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