William R. Burkitt

William R. Burkitt, 85, of Galesburg, IL, passed away at 2:10 a.m., Saturday, September 4, 2021 at Heartland Healthcare Center, Galesburg, IL.

He was born on September 26, 1935 in Monmouth, IL, the son of Russell Owen and Helen Doris (Gardiner) Burkitt.  William was raised and educated in Monmouth and graduated from Monmouth High School in 1953.  He later attended Monmouth College from 1959-1960.

William served in the United States Air Force from 1953-1957.

He married Linda Themanson on October 14, 1961 in Monmouth, IL; she preceded him in death on September 19, 1970.

William worked at Monmouth College in the Maintenance Dept. from 1968-1997.  He enjoyed reading and watching birds.

Surviving William are two brothers, David J. (Starla) Burkitt of Montgomery, AL, Daniel E. (Janice) Burkitt of Sterling, IL; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Linda Burkitt; three sisters, Donna Objartel, Sara Jones, and Karen Hull.

Cremation rites have been accorded.  Interment with Military Honors will be in Rock Island National Cemetery, Rock Island, IL.  Memorials can be made to the William Burkitt Memorial Fund.  McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory, Monmouth, IL, is in charge of the arrangements.