Robert Eugene Burkett, 89, of Cassopolis, died peacefully Saturday, October 18, 2025 – just three days shy of his 90th birthday – in the comfort of his family’s presence. He was finally able to join his beloved wife, Ruth Ann, after missing her immensely, following her passing.
His life began October 21, 1935 in Benton Harbor, Michigan, the first of three children born to Charles and Alice Burkett. He married Ruth Ann Mesko June 30, 1956 in South Bend, Indiana. After sixty-five years of marriage, she preceded him in death in 2021.
Bob was a farmer in Cassopolis for fifty-six years. He owned a livestock trucking business and worked for Michigan Livestock Exchange in Cassopolis. Bob was passionate about draft horses, he invested his time training, pulling and showing his horses. He was a mentor for those in the community, teaching them how to get involved and train their horses. Bob was one of the founding members of the Cass County Draft Horse Association and helped start the draft horse show at the Cass County Fair. He was on the Board of Directors at the Fair for over a decade. Later he got involved with antique tractors, his favorite being his John Deere A. Bob took time every evening to be with his McDonalds friends. Bob enjoyed camping with family and friends, especially by Shipshewana. Most importantly, he loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Bob will be greatly missed by family and friends. He is survived by two sons, Robert A. (Kim) Burkett of Cassopolis, Rick (Tammy) Burkett of Fair Oaks, Indiana; six grandchildren, Ashley Mesko, Brooks Mesko, Bryan Burkett, Brandy Burkett, Justin Burkett, Matthew Williams; five great grandchildren; one sister, Charlene Allen; and a host of nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents one step-son, Reginald Mesko and his sister, Patricia Brown.
Private services have taken place. Bob will be laid to rest beside his beloved wife, Ruth Ann, at a later date.
The family prefers contributions in memory of Robert be made to Hanson Hospice Center, give.corewellhealth.org/donate or Cass County Council on Aging, Post Office Box 5, Cassopolis, Michigan 49031.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagner Family Funerals Connelly Chapel, Cassopolis. Please share a memory or a message online: wagnercares.com.
Posted On: Monday, October 20, 2025 4:06 PM
