Burton Vern Kirkham, 43, beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away on August 15, 2022, in a motorcycle accident in Kuna, Idaho. Burt, as he was called by those who loved him, was born on January 13, 1979, to Grant and Roberta Kirkham in Lehi, Utah. Burt's work ethic and caring nature were evident at a very young age, he loved to help his father feed and tend to the family farm, feeding the cows and sheep. He also enjoyed the outdoors, spending time hunting and exploring with his brothers. Burt attended Lehi High School where he was a member of the Lehi Rodeo Club, he loved the challenge of riding bulls and thrived in the pursuit of this accomplishment. Burt studied diesel and auto mechanics at Utah Valley Community College, he had a fix-it mindset and a natural mechanical skill set to match, you would often find Burt helping his friends and family by turning wrenches or hammering away at a problem to be solved. Sometimes you wouldn't even know something needed to be fixed until you saw Burt working on it. Burt made a career out of his curiosity and technical prowess. He worked as an Auto Technician and was known in the Boise area as the person who could diagnose and solve the most challenging mechanical conundrums. Burt was the youngest of five siblings by 13 years, you might say that he arrived late, and he certainly left too early. In his 43 short years with us, he made an echoing impact in the uniquely quiet way that Burt lived, loved, and served everyone in his life. What Burt lacked in verbosity he made up in unconditional kindness. One of his greatest acts of service to his family was to move home to help his mom take care of his father who had been diagnosed with lung cancer. He is survived by his mother Roberta; two brothers Kim (DeAnne), Jay (Kathi); and two sisters Elane, and Alisha Elizabeth; nine nieces and nephews; 17 great-nieces and nephews. He was particularly close to his niece Ashley and her two children Kinsey and Chase. Burt was preceded in death by his father, Grant Kirkham; his grandparents; and a nephew Cody Brooks. Services were held at the Lehi Cemetery on August 19, 2022. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to St. Judes Children's Hospital in honor of the selfless life of service that Burt lived. In his last text Burton wrote "On my way home. Love you" a message intended for his mom that instead was received by his father who was surely waiting for him with open arms in heaven.
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