Major (Retired, United States Army) Donnell Eugene Burchell, born April 4, 1939 in Sacramento, California, died peacefully in his sleep with family at his bedside November 1, 2015 in Martinez, California. He was preceded in death by adored wife, Nora Margy Brown Burchell, cherished son Reed Eugene Burchell, and father Jack Burchell. He is survived by daughter Melanie Burchell Schauer (Bill), granddaughters Chelsea, Gretchen, and Claire Schauer, grandson William Schauer, mother Dorcys Burchell, sister Linda Van Loben Sels (Topper), nephews Brad (Jodi), Mark (Mary), Justin (Kristy), and several great nieces and nephews, brother-in-law Robert Borwn, niece Jill Brown O'Neal (Chester), great niece Lauren Knight Melton (Matthew), and great great niece Sadie Elizabeth Melton, nephew Gordon Foster (Gina), niece Kim Foster Garnto, and great nieces Jade Foster and Mary-Michael Futch.
Don was raised in Walnut Grove, California and graduated from Courtland High School, class of 1957. After graduation Don joined the Army and was stationed in Ft. Stewart, Georgia where he met and married Margy. Don loved God with all his heart and had a very extensive knowledge of the Bible. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Mt.Vernon, Georgia where he served as a deacon, taught Sunday school, and sang in the choir. Don, a veteran, served his country with honor and was the recipient of several Bronze Stars, Silver Crosses, letters of commendation and the Purple Heart. After retiring from the Army, Don and Margy settled in Ailey, Georgia where he farmed and rasied his family. He and Margy spent many years running a successful catering business. Don also drove a school bus for Vidalia City Schools and was fondly known as Mr. B by his students. He dearly loved God, his country and his family, especially his children and grandchildren and his extra special family members, Jill, Chester and Lauren.
The last five years of Don and Margy’s life was spent living in Walnut Grove, California, which allowed them to be nearer to their grandchildren, who they loved dearly.
Interment will occur privately at Hardens Chapel Cemetery with Military Honors. The family will receive friends at Stewart-Rosier Funeral Service Vidalia Chapel on Tuesday, November 22, 2016 from 3:00 – 5:00 pm.
At Don's request, please make donations in his memory to Canine Companions for Independence (www.cci.org)
National Headquarters:
Canine Companions for Independence
P.O. Box 446
Santa Rosa, CA 95402-0446
Stewart-Rosier Funeral Service Vidalia Chapel is in charge of funeral arrangements.
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