Kent Donald Burrell

On June 30, our beloved, husband, father, grampers, and brother Kent Donald Burrell (66 yr), returned to his heavenly home after a battle with congestive heart failure. Kent was born on January 11, 1957, to Kathryn and Wilfred Burrell. As a child, Kent was creative and fascinated by science and new technology. He was a talented artist, designer, director, and actor. He participated in all the plays during his years at Cottonwood High School and is remembered for his role as Tevia in Fiddler on the Roof. He later went on to perform at Theater 138, Lagoon Opera House, Walk-ons Theater, Sundance Theater, and Hale Center Theatre. Kent eventually received his Bachelors in Theater Education from the University of Utah with a Masters in Curriculum from the University of Phoenix. Kent served a two-year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in New York City (Spanish speaking) from 1976-1978. On his mission, he grew to appreciate a variety of different Spanish cultures and a love for the people. His testimony grew and strengthened during these years and he had many sacred experiences which solidified his testimony of Jesus Christ and his church. Kent served in many callings including ward and stake clerk, choir director, and organist. Kent was a talented organist and choir director and blessed many with his enthusiasm and professionalism. Kent taught theatre and stage crew for 31 years. He inspired students at Alta, West Jordan. Copper Hills and Jordan High Schools. Kent received many awards on the regional and state levels, including Shakespearian competitions. Throughout his 31 years of teaching, Kent inspired many students and was an instrument of good in their lives. He encouraged his students to channel their passion and enthusiasm into their performances and to strive for excellence. Kent received several awards as an educator including teacher of the month and teacher of the year on multiple occasions. It was while teaching that Kent became acquainted with Teresa Andersen. He married his best friend and sweetheart on January 12, 1985, in the Salt Lake Temple. Kent was a kind, loving, nurturing, and supportive husband who encouraged Teresa in all her endeavors. Their devotion to one another has been an inspiration to their family and others. During the last 38 years, they have been able to withstand many challenges and trials because of their love and dedication to each other, their family, and their God. Together they have raised six amazing and courageous children. Kent loves his children and tried to develop personal relationships with them by taking them on turn-outs and having Daddy talk time. When the children were sick or injured, it was their Daddy they turned to because of his gentle and nurturing nature. He made many ER and Instacare visits. Kent also delights in his 5 grandchildren and is very proud of the way they are growing and developing their talents. Kent faced many challenges and trials during his life. One of his greatest challenges was his battle with his addictions. Kent developed an appreciation for the addiction recovery program, the power of the Book of Mormon, and a great love for his Savior and his plan of mercy. Kent loved church history and his pioneer ancestors. He gained strength and courage through their examples and carried a quote in his wallet of Francis Webster, a member of the Martin Handcart. It said, “Everyone of us came through with the absolute knowledge that God lives for we became acquainted with Him in our extremities!” Kent is now reunited with his parents (Kathryn Hardy and Wilfred Burrell), brothers (Craig and Charlie Burrell), and in-laws (Lynda Stephens and William Andersen). We have no doubt that there is a happy reunion taking place. Kent is survived by his sisters Kaylene ( Byron) Peterson and Connie (Richard) Sawatzki and sister-in-law Gail (Craig) Burrell; His sweetheart Teresa Burrell and Children: Caleb (Megan), Emma, Gideon, Ephraim, Joshua (Shelby) and Jessica Burrell, and his 5 grandchildren: Elli, Sophia, Hayzlee. Ruby and Peter, We have no doubt that in the spirit world, he will continue to uphold our family motto “I’ll lift thee and thee lift me and we’ll ascend together.” Flower may be sent to Serenity Funeral Home 13863 S 2700 W, Bluffdale, UT, 84065 Please join us in honoring Kent for a funeral service on July 8, 2023, at 11:30 a.m. at the Cottonwood 8th Ward building located at 6301 S. 2300 E., Holladay, UT 84121. A viewing will be held prior to the funeral on July 8, 2023, from 10:00 a.m. -11:15 a.m. and on Friday, July 7, 2023, from 6:30 p.m. -8:00 p.m. The family would like to thank Wayne Heady and the Cottonwood 8th ward for their unconditional love and continual support to Kent over the years and South Davis Hospice especially Michelle, Jordi, Linda, and Carly for their tender care. “Please share memories and condolences at www.serenityfhs.com Please follow the link for the funeral https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88279517967?pwd=N0pia0ZKb3Y2aFhlRzRCZjRxa250QT09

Kent Donald Burrell

January 11, 1957 - June 30, 2023