Gene Burker

With heavy hearts but joyous memories, we announce the passing of Gene Burker, who left this world on April 29, 2025, at the age of 80 in Bennion's VA Care Center in Payson, Utah. He battled and won the fight against Prostate and Bladder Cancer but in the end, Alzheimer's took his life. He was born on October 24, 1944, in Watertown, New York. Gene was the son of Albert George Burker and Alice Elizabeth Blowers Burker. He was number nine out of ten children.

In a beautiful union that began on August 2, 1968, Gene married his beloved wife, Wanda Lea McClurg, in Logan, Kansas. In 1990 he became a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. A year later their eternal bond was solemnized in the Boise, Idaho LDS Temple in 1991, a testament to their deep faith and commitment to one another. He was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he joyfully served in the Bishopric multiple times and as a primary teacher, leaving a lasting impact on those he served.

He served with honor as an Air Force veteran during the Vietnam War, Gene carried a strong sense of duty and dedication throughout his life. He served in the military for 20 years. Retiring as a Senior Master Sergeant. His duties sent him to Utah, Germany, California, Thailand, Minnesota, and Alaska. Where he chose to retire. He had a knack for bartering and after retiring from the military he started and owned Gene's Pawn Shop in Eagle River, Alaska for 19 years. Where he helped many people that came in just to talk and get life advice.

Gene lived life to the fullest; he had a passion for fishing and going on hunting trips. He had amazing culinary skills. He was renowned for his spectacular fish fry events, where he loved gathering friends and sharing laughter. A natural conversationalist, Gene delighted in meeting new people, everyone he met was an instant friend. He loved offering a helping hand and serving those around him.

Gene is survived by his devoted wife, Wanda, their two children, Rance (Leslie) Burker and Nicole (Lee) Bott, his seven beloved grandchildren, (Hayden, Lindsey and Brock Burker; Ashlee, Brooke, Cami and Daci Bott) and his brother, Gus Burker. He was proceeded in death by his parents, 5 sisters and 4 brothers.

To celebrate Gene's remarkable life, funeral services will be held on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at 11:00 AM in the Lehi 8th Ward, located at 127 East 3200 North, Lehi. Prior to the service, a viewing will take place from 9:45 to 10:45 AM at the church, providing an opportunity for friends and family to come together in remembrance. Following the service, Gene will be laid to rest with honors in the Utah Veterans Memorial Park.

Please join us in celebrating Gene's life. Share your cherished memories on Gene's Tribute Wall at www.AndersonMortuary.com. His spirit will live on in all of us, from the smiles he brought to the acts of kindness he inspired.

In lieu of flowers please donate to the VA, Huntsman Cancer Institute or Alzheimer's research.