Dr. Gerald W. Burkett, 96, died December 28, 2023, at North River Health Campus in Evansville, Indiana, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born July 5, 1927, at Keenes, Illinois, the son of Ernest D. and Nettie (Mills) Burkett, who preceded him in death, as did three infant brothers.

He married artha Sue Collins on September 13, 1950, in Evansville, Indiana. She preceded him in death on May 17, 1994. He married Lois Ann Wahler on December 26, 1999, in Mount Carmel and she preceded him in death on November 21, 2020. He was preceded in death, also, by a brother Ernest V. Burkett and sister Majel M. Worley both of Indianapolis.

He is also survived by two sons, Stephen G. (Donna) Burkett of Haubstadt, Indiana, and Daniel C. (Wanda) Burkett of Richmond, Texas. Loving grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a great-great grandchild also survive.

Dr. Burkett served aboard ships in the Pacific late during World War II and graduated from the University of Illinois College of Dentistry in 1952 and practiced in Mount Carmel for 43 years before retiring with Dr. G. Andrew Fischer continuing the practice. He was a life member of the Illinois State Dental Society and American Dental Association.

Services will be held at 12:00 p.m. Friday, January 5, 2024, at Short-Cunningham Funeral Home with burial in Highland Memorial Cemetery. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until time-of-service Friday, January 5, 2024, at Short-Cunningham Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or American Heart Association.

Condolences may be sent to www.short-cunninghamfh.com Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve Dr. Burkett’s family.