Thomas Dean Burt

Our cherished and loving dad passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Thursday, January 4th and joyfully welcomed into the loving arms of his wife of 72 years, Betty Jean McPolin. He was born in Salt Lake City, on September 18, 1924 to Thomas Stevenson and Anna Teressa Burt. Later moved to Park City, Utah the birthplace of his father. 

Dad played basketball and football for Park City High School where he finally captured the eye of the girl of his dreams from Elementary School. Mom was a cheerleader and dad said he had no idea how he got so lucky! They were married September 25, 1944 in Park City at St. Mary’s Catholic Church while dad was on a break from the Marine Corps. He was an amazing golfer and would practice putting with his favorite Titleist putter on artificial turf in his room, when his health allowed. He once putted 125 putts without missing, maybe he should have gone pro. As much as he enjoyed golf, bowling was his biggest joy and love. He was in several men’s leagues and entered many tournaments, usually placing in the money. Dad bowled a perfect game of 300 and wore his 300 ring proudly. He never lost his desire to bowl and talked about how he could bowl free at Bonwood after her turned 90. He was always chasing another perfect game. Pray Heaven has bowling lanes. 

Dad’s love for his country drove him to proudly enlist in the U.S. Marine Corps prior to graduation, on January 27, 1943 thru December 1945. His service included Kodiak Alaska, Marine Detachment on USS Chester, Gunner on an Amphibious Tractor Battalion and finally stationed in the Pacific Area, as an Anti-Aircraft Gun Crewman/Guard. Dad took his first flight on a jet when he was blessed to join other World War II Veterans on the Honor Flight to Washington DC April of 2016. He was so overwhelmed with pride and emotion to be honored by strangers for his long ago service. 

He worked for Highland Dairy for a short time however made his living as a Meat Cutter, he also owned several butcher shops and worked for numerous grocery stores and meat packing facilities. His was well know for his excellence of butchery and therefore considered one of the best meat cutter’s around the area. He also enjoyed dabbling in a couple side businesses, owning Ice Cream and Snow Cone Trucks. Us girls loved to go with him around the neighborhoods putting smiles on children’s faces. Dad will be forever remembered for his contagious smile, devotion and loving spirit towards his family and all he came in contact with. 

He is survived by his children Linda, Patricia (Paul), Tom (Linda), and Pamela (Todd); brother Don (Marjorie); 10- grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; 10 great-great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews. Dad adored all and loved them with his whole heart! He was so proud of each and every one of his family members. The love him tons.. 

Preceded in death by the love of his life Betty Jean McPolin Burt; parents Thomas Stevenson and Anna Teressa Burt; sister Kathleen; and brothers Doug and Wayne. 

A celebration of his life will be held on Monday, January 15, 2018 from 6:00 – 8:00 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. Guests are encouraged to use the complimentary valet parking on the north side of the building. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, January 16, 2018 at 10:00 AM at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, 1375 East Spring Lane, Salt Lake City. Following Mass the family will privately gather at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. 

A special thanks to all at Pacifica Senior Living, Brighton Hospice and Home Health, Palliative Speciality Group, and Health Watch for their continuous care and love for Dad and our family! You are all very special angels and have a place in our hearts. 

Dad had a huge loving heart especially for disabled children and would have us donate to the Smile Train or St. Jude for all special occasions in lieu of presents for himself. You may do the same in lieu of flowers in his memory at www.smiletrain.org/donation or www.stjude.org. 

Please send donation cards or notifications to Dean Burt, 7829 Summer Station Way, Midvale, Utah 84047. Any flowers may be delivered to Starks Funeral Parlor.