MARTIN B. BURCHETT
1930 – 2003
Martin B. Burchett of Ridgecrest CA died Tuesday, Oct 7, 2003, at his home surrounded by his wife of 48 ½ years and his family. He was 72.
A memorial service was held at Crossroads Community Church on Sunday, Oct 12 at 1 p.m. Rev. Bill Corley officiated.
A Military graveside service will be at 1 p.m., Oct 25, at Yatesville Memorial Gardens, Louisa KY with Rev. Clifford Austin officiating.
Burchett was born Nov. 15, 1930, in Wayland KY. He was a native of Prestonsburg KY. He graduated from Prestonsburg High School with the Class of the 49rs.
He was a Chief Master Sergeant with the United States Air Force. He retired after serving 27 years, with tours of duty in the Korean and Vietnam conflicts. Martin was the recipient of the Bronze Star, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal, nine Good Conduct Medals, the Presidential Unit Citation, the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, the American Defense Service Medal with two OLC, the Vietnamese Service Medal with bar, and three Campaign Stars.
He also retired after 15 years of service with the Naval Weapons Center, China Lake CA as a Branch Head in the Ordnance Department.
Burchett was very active with the youth sports program coaching for many years. He loved to fish and hunt and enjoyed the beautiful mountains.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Opal and Belvard Burchett, two sisters, Ann and Doris Faye, brother, John A. Burchett, and a great-great aunt, Bertha Weddington, who raised him.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Mary Adkins Burchett; son and daughter-in-law, Bland and Billee Burchett of Ridgecrest, brother, Ernest Burchett of Prestonsburg KY; grandchildren, Hollie and Domonick Margarelia of Scottsville AZ; Christopher M. Burchett of Avondale AZ; a special little fishing partner, Sam;and many nieces and nephews.
The family requests contributions be made to the American Cancer Society , Indian Wells Valley Unit, 129 E. Ridgecrest Blvd, Suite F, Ridgecrest CA 93555 or a charity of your choice.
Private cremation, arrangements and media information provided by Holland & Lyons Mortuary and Wilson Funeral Home.
