Unfortunately, Burnette, a cadet with the Wright City Fire Protection District, passed away suddenly at the age of 49. Burnette was found dead June 28 at his home in Wentzville. Wright City Fire Chief Brian Nickerson said no cause of death has been determined. Funeral services were held Friday at Wentzville Christian Church. Burial was at Eternal Peace Cemetery in Wentzville. Firefighters from Wright City, Warrenton, Lincoln County, Wentzville and Holt Summit participated in Friday's funeral procession. The fire trucks passed the Wentzville Fire Station where Burnette's gear rested on the front of a truck. A giant American flag also waved over Pitman Avenue as the procession headed to the cemetery. "He had a personality that stood out above the others," Nickerson said. "He loved sports, he loved the game of golf. He was dedicated and committed." Nickerson said Burnette had been part of the Wright City Academy for two months. He would have been certified to become a volunteer firefighter. "He finally found the time and place," Nickerson said. "He was part of our family." Burnette was an employee at Home Depot in Wentzville for at least six years. He was going to be recognized with the company's Angel Award. Earlier this year, Burnette and another employee's actions helped save a man's life. Store officials said Burnette called an ambulance to the store after noticing the man was experiencing chest pains. It was later learned the man was suffering a heart attack. Burnette and the other employee were to receive $500 and a plaque for his act. "He was a great person," said Stacy Wolf of Home Depot. "He was always there to help. He loved being with the customers." In honor of Burnette, Home Depot plans on doubling any donation received by the store. For example, if an individual or business donates $10, Home Depot will contribute $20. The store can be reached at 636-327-0897. "He will be greatly missed," Wolf said. Burnette was born Dec. 5, 1959, in Atlanta, Ga. He is survived by one son, Mitchell; one stepdaughter, Kimberley Lauren Hall, both of Wentzville; and one brother, Tracy Burnette, of Atlanta. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Ella Burnette. Memorials are requested to be made to the Wright City Fire Protection District in care of Pitman Funeral Home, P.O. Box 248, Wentzville, MO 63385.