MICHAEL EUGENE BURLESON
Michael Eugene Burleson, age 52, of Oak Harbor, died suddenly on Sunday, August 23, 2009.
Mike was born in Custer, South Dakota, on July 1, 1957, to Morton and Shirley (Powell) Burleson. Mike spent most of his young life in South Dakota. On September 10, 1994, he married Janie Amezquita in Fresno, CA. For years, Mike was a logger and tree trimmer, working in the woods and forests of South Dakota, Alaska, Arizona, and California. Due to an on-the-job injury, he was unable to continue doing what he loved as a logger.
Mike and Janie moved to Whidbey Island to be closer to the natural beauty, which they both loved. Mike was an avid outdoorsman. He loved to deer hunt and gold pan, as well as numerous outdoor activities, such as scuba diving, four-wheeling, kayaking and fishing. Mike also had an immense love for dogs. A great sense of humor, practical jokes, stories, and laughter were a huge part of Mike’s personality, and drew many people to love him. Whether family, or a stranger on the street, Mike’s love for people was always evident. Mike attended Living Word Foursquare Church in Oak Harbor. He knew and loved the Lord passionately. Mike was unashamed of his relationship with the Lord, and made a point to tell anyone and everyone about Jesus Christ. Mike believed that God was for all people, regardless of their own situations, and he strove to share the compassion and love that He has for all. Mike was a spiritual leader to both family and friends, always encouraging and comforting, which stemmed from his love and knowledge of the Word of God.
Mike is survived by his wife, Janie, at home; his son, Art Orozco (Alexis), of Oak Harbor; three grandchildren, Athena, Desmond and Hailey; two brothers, Doug Burleson (Debbie) of Roundup, Montana, and Dave Burleson (Patty) of Hill City, S.D.; two sisters, Cheryl Schlegelmich (Gary) of Rapid City, S.D. and DeElda McPherson (Sande) of Hot Springs, S.D.; also, numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives.
Visitation will be Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Whidbey Memorial Chapel. Services will be held at Living Word Foursquare Church, 490 NW Crosby Ave., Saturday at 2:00 p.m. Family and friends are encouraged to sign the online guest register at www.whidbeymemorial.com. Arrangements are with the assistance of Whidbey Memorial Funeral & Cremation Service, Inc., 746 NE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Michael Eugene "Mike" Burleson, please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store.