Charles Norman “Chuck” Burdette

Charles Norman “Chuck” Burdette, 79, of Knoxville, died at 12:40 p.m. Monday, February 19, 2024, at home.

He was born June 2, 1944, in Fort Madison, Iowa, the son of Norman Howard and Evelyn Frances (Hall) Burdette. He married the love of his life, Penny Gale Hoffman on July 3, 1966, in Knoxville and stayed happily married until the day of his passing.

He is survived by his wife of over 57 years, Penny; two sons, Brandon James (Desiree Harris) Burdette and Christopher Scott (Kelly) Burdette; four grandchildren, Logan Charles, Caleb James, Hatley Elizabeth, and Carter Scott Burdette; a brother, Brett Riley (Lori) Burdette; and a sister, Karen Evelyn Bjorkman. His parents preceded him in death.

Chuck had worked as a bookkeeper for the Golden Ox Restaurant in Colorado before gaining employment with Gates Rubber Company. His career at Gates spanned over 35 years, where he held many positions including first responder and being a part of the safety team before retiring. He owned and operated Burdette Excavating for several years simultaneously with his employment at Gates.

He graduated from Centennial High School in Pueblo, Colorado in 1962. He attended the University of Colorado, then graduated from Brown’s Business College in 1966, and graduated from Carl Sandburg College in 1984. Chuck’s hobbies included gardening, woodworking, and fishing. His grandchildren were particularly important to him, and he appreciated watching them grow up. In his younger years, he enjoyed driving and working on fast cars and snow skiing.

Charles was proud of his Scouting heritage and earned his Eagle Scout 1960.

Visitation will be 10 to 11 a.m. Friday, February 23, 2024, at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services Galesburg Chapel. Funeral will follow at 11 a.m. with Pastor Jordan Knight officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to his grandson’s Boy Scout Troop, Troop 242, Hardin Valley, Tennessee. Online condolences and memories may be left on the funeral home’s website at www.h-p-w.com.