Michael “Mike” James Burkowski, Jr.

Michael James Burkowski, Jr., age 79, of Trussville, Alabama, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on May 28, 2026. He was born on October 7, 1946, in St. Paul, Minnesota to Michael and Evelyn Burkowski. 

Michael was a twice-decorated recipient of the Purple Heart for his service as a Marine in the Vietnam War. After his service in Vietnam, he built a career as a mental health counselor. His final ten years before retirement were spent working at West Point Military Academy. In 1970, Michael married Barbara Wimberly, and together they shared 55 wonderful years of marriage. 

Mike had a deep passion for his faith and for helping people. He loved reading his Bible, working on carpentry in his workshop and forge, and fishing. Mike was most in his element spending time with his family, sitting around a fire with a cup of coffee, and solving the world’s problems. 

Michael is survived by his spouse, Barbara; children, Amy (Leif), Scott (Anna), and Amanda (Barry); grandchildren, Mary (Wilford), Anna (Austin), and Leif Michael (Daniela), and Laura (Robert); great-grandchildren Michael and Addie; and siblings, Patsy (Anthony), Susan (Marvin), and Cherri (Joe). He was preceded in death by his parents, Michael and Evelyn, and siblings William, Betsy, and Debbie. 

Services will be held at Charter Funeral Home (2521 US-31, Calera, AL 35040) on Thursday, June 4, 2016. A visitation will begin at 9:30 am followed by a funeral service at 10:30 a.m. Mike will be laid to rest in The Alabama National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or Childhaven Children’s Home of Cullman, AL.