Mr. Dennis Burnett Esq.

The tall cypress in the forest, our son, brother, father and friend ~ Dennis, was born in Detroit to John and Marion Burnett on March 18, 1950. He was proud to say he was the “prima gente”, their first born. The oldest of four siblings. Relatives say that Dennis was named after “Dennis Day”, the radio, TV singer and actor, because his dad really thought that Dennis Day was such a smart and talented man. What a start for Dennis Burnett! He was encouraged by his parents who believed in his bright and ravenous mind to work hard in school. His father worked two jobs to make sure his family had what they needed. His mother was devoted to the raising of her family always giving her best to provide a nurturing home environment for her family. Commitment and hard work were the foundation of the Burnett household.Tall trees come from rich soil. He was educated at Caroline Crossman Detroit Public School. In junior high he attended St. Agnes School. He continued on for high school to Cathedral High where he became a successful basketball lead player known by his team mates as “spider man.” He had a love for cars, education, basketball and tennis. He moved on to graduate from the University of Detroit (later named U of D Mercy) with a major in physics. He continued on to Wayne State graduating with his Juris Doctorate. He was married and to this union 3 sons were born. He worked for over 30 years as counsel for the City of Detroit Law Department. He also worked as a mediator for The Detroit Auto Club. Spiritually Dennis grew up serving as an alter boy and later on as a member of the parish council at Gesu church. He continued participating in his worship experience until his health kept him from attending. No matter how difficult his health challenges Dennis courageously fought for a place on the “corner of happy and healthy.” Very early on the morning of Tuesday May 26 Dennis left the good fight behind and walked through the gates of eternal life. He leaves to mourn his passing his sons: Christian, Ryan (Caitlin), and Matthew. Grandchildren: Zadie and Fredrick. His beloved mother Marion, sister Cynthia, brother John (Judy), nephews Josh, Shane, and Jennifer along with a host of cousins, family and friends. Please encourage the family with an everlasting note of condolence on our Tribute Page.

Mr. Dennis Burnett Esq.

March 18, 1950 - May 26, 2020