Mark Burnett left this life on Sept. 21, 2022. He is survived by his wife, Chris Burnett; sisters, Diane Burnett (Pagosa Springs, Colorado) and Terry Appelt (Auburn, Illinois); brother, Mike Burnett (Springfield, Illinois); and nephews, Dayton Burnett (Springfield, Illinois), Blayne Burnett (Denver, Colorado) and Chance Burnett (Springfield, Illinois); and his beloved dog, Bluzee.
Mark was a gifted entrepreneur from an early age. He created Sebastian’s restaurant in Springfield in his twenties and saw this restaurant enjoy great success and be a staple of fine dining in the community. He moved on and was successful in catering and state food service contracts as well.
He and Chris made the move to Oregon in 2013 to follow a job opportunity for Chris and fell in love with Oregon. Not long after arriving he again applied his gifts to creating the Markum Inn and Muddy Boots Bar in Mount Angel, Oregon. Opening in 2016 it continues to thrive and be a favorite of locals and a tourist destination. He was a true “foodie” and loved to bring great food and a welcoming atmosphere to his customers.
His legacy would not be complete without noting his love of sports, especially football, a game he played competitively in high school and college. His true love however was as a dedicated and passionate coach of Springfield High School players. He was at his happiest being a mentor and leader for young men who might not have had that presence in their lives. Mark was someone who loved to give back and offer support to those who needed a boost. He had a big heart and a generous spirit.
He will be missed, and the world lost a kind and loving soul when Mark departed.
A celebration of life for Mark was held on Oct. 17 at the Markum Inn Restaurant. In lieu of flowers, if you wish to honor Mark, please donate to one of the following organizations. Or any pet rescue that you deem appropriate.
The Dougy Center
3909 S. E. 52nd Ave.
P.O. Box 86852
Portland, OR 97286
www.dougy.org
Springfield Senators High School Football Program
attn: Coach Jon Hebb
101 S. Lewis St.
Springfield, IL 62704
Many Miles to Home Pit Bull Rescue
87295 Territorial Hwy
Veneta, OR 97487-9451
www.facebook.com/ManyMilesHomeDogRescue
Assisting the family is Unger Funeral Chapel – Silverton, Oregon.
