Donald E. "Don" Burlew

Donald E. "Don" Burlew, 93, of Topeka, passed away on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at a Topeka hospital. He was born November 7, 1932 in Valencia, Kansas, the son of Merle J. and Edna R. (Morris) Burlew.

Don graduated from Topeka High School. He was a Navy Veteran, serving during the Korean War. He was stationed near Japan. Don was employed by DuPont / Flexel for 44 years before retiring. He was committed to donating blood to his community throughout his lifetime. He and his wife, Jean were avid bowlers.

Don met his future wife on a blind date and later married Jean J. Hartford on July 26, 1955 in Portland, Oregon. They just celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary last July. She survives. Other survivors include children, Debra (David) Gary of Topeka, Ronald Burlew of Topeka, two grandchildren, Dustin (Jill) Gary, Danielle (Aaron) Ness, four great-grandchildren, Lorelei, Arabel, Dexter and Brecken, and his siblings, Dorothy Bears and Bill Burlew.

Don was preceded in death by his brother, James Burlew.

Private services will be held at Mount Hope Cemetery and Funeral Chapel. Burial will follow in Mount Hope Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the American Heart Association, 7272 Greenville Ave., Dallas, Texas 75231 or to the National Kidney Foundation - KS, MO, AR, 9218 Metcalf Ave., Ste. 424, Overland Park, Kansas 66212.

Dove Southeast Chapel, 2843 SE Minnesota Ave. is assisting the family with service arrangements.

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