George Lee Burton

George L. Burton, 85, of Independence, MO, died on Monday, May 14 at Holden Manor Care Center, Holden, MO. George was born March 2, 1933 in Parkerville, KS to Clyde & Nelle (Moreland) Burton. He served his country as a corporal in the US Army during the Korean War, earning several medals and accommodations for his service. George married Yvonne Spittles on June 17, 1956 in Alta Vista, KS. They were later divorced in October of 1984. He worked for C.S. Ehinger in Kansas City, MO for approx. 40 years as a truck driver and mechanic. He was a member of the Teamster Union. George had 4 children, 6 grandchildren & 7 great grandchildren. After retirement he picked up some hobbies. He did some woodworking making some family members some very nice pieces. Then he got interested in antique engines. He bought, sold and restored many different brands & showed his engines at antique tractor & engine shows in Missouri, Kansas & Oklahoma. He was a member of the MOKAN engine club & the Chilhowee Antique Farm Machinery Collectors Org. He truly enjoyed his time spent at different shows talking to people about his engines, explaining what they were used for and showing kids how they work. His love of these engines inspired a grandson to take up the hobby as well. Neighborhood kids would come to ‘Mr. George’ for help fixing and adjusting their bikes. All the neighbors knew if they needed something, George probably had it and would loan it to them. He was a member of the MOKAN engine club & the Chilhowee Antique Farm Machinery Collectors Org. George was an active member & officer of the Annual Burton Family Reunion. He only missed 1 reunion in his lifetime. The one thing that will never be forgotten about George is his infectious, boisterous laugh. George is survived by Yvonne Burton of Gladstone, MO; daughters - Brenda Newell of Baldwin City, KS and Jannett Miller & husband Kevin of Kingsville, MO; son - Jeffrey Burton & wife Michelle of Holt, MO. Six grandchildren: Jeremy & Matthew Miller, J.T. & Pam Newell, Bridgett Burton-Johnson & Rachel Burton. Seven great grandchildren: Emma, Abby & Ashley Miller, Emilee & Hailey Johnson, Kayleigh Newell & Kamryn Holiman; and two sisters: Nan Hale of McPherson, KS & Karen Cofran of Olathe, KS. Preceding him in death are: his parents, his son Mikel, 3 brothers Phillip, Harry & Clyde Jr., 2 sisters Betty Hern & Melba Plummer, and son-in-law, Jim Newell. Graveside Services are scheduled for 10:00 A.M. August 18th 2018 at the Burton Cemetery in Parkerville, Kansas Memorial contributions can be made to: Holden Special Olympics, 1612 South Main St., Holden, MO 64040.

George Lee Burton

March 2, 1933 - May 14, 2018