Donald V Burgett, of St. Louis, Missouri, passed away peacefully on January 22, 2026, at Laclede Grove. Born on February 7, 1934, in Jeffersonville, Indiana, Donald’s life was defined by service, adventure, and a warm sense of humor.

Donald proudly served as a Navigator in the United States Air Force from 1953 to 1972. During his distinguished career, he flew numerous missions throughout the Cold War and the Vietnam War, guiding KC135 crews on journeys around the globe. After retiring as a Major, Donald continued his commitment to national service at the Defense Mapping Agency (which later became part of the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency), where he worked until the mid-1990s. Colleagues affectionately called him “Magellan,” a fitting tribute to his love of exploration and discovery. In later years, he volunteered for the mayor’s office in Lebanon, Illinois, where he lived until 2021.

Beyond his professional achievements, Donald was cherished for his adventurous spirit and his gift for bringing laughter to those around him. Whether he was recounting stories from his flying days or pursuing his passion for sailing, he inspired others to embrace life’s possibilities.

Donald was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 67 years, Marlene M. (née Kranning) Burgett; his parents, Zelma (Van Voorst) Burgett and Paul H. Burgett; his five brothers, Charles, Allen “Denny,” Richard, Max, and Melvin Burgett; his sister, Essie (née Burgett) Cunningham; and his youngest grandchild, Audrey Elizabeth Thomas.

He is survived by his four children: Karen (née Burgett) Totten; Theresa K. Burgett and her husband, Stuart A. Lewis; Donald V “Jake” Burgett Jr. and his wife, Cecelia; and Nicholas Burgett and his partner, Karen McKinley. He also leaves behind two grandchildren, Deane Sagehorn and Eleanor “Nellie” Thomas, as well as numerous nephews and nieces.

A memorial service will be held in the summer months, with the date to be announced later. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Air Force Assistance Fund: https://www.afassistancefund.org/index.php/our-charities/.