Matthew A. Burkett

Matthew A. Burkett, 55, of Sedalia, passed away Monday, July 21, 2025, at his home.

He was born April 1, 1970, in Phoenix, Arizona, the son of Bruce and Donna (Grosswiler) Burkett. On May 12, 1990, in Avondale, Arizona, he was united in marriage to Claudene Williams, who survives of the home.

Matthew worked as a glazier for much of his life, earning a reputation as one of the best in the business. Known to many as “Boss Man,” he was respected for his strong work ethic, commanding presence, and larger-than-life personality.

Stubborn and hard-headed, he was also funny, generous, and fiercely loyal. He loved to talk smack, tell jokes, and made everyone around him feel welcomed and loved. He would give the shirt off his back, but not his last cigarette.

Matthew adored his family and would do anything for his children and grandchildren. He had a special bond with each of them, often giving them nicknames. His grandchildren lovingly called him “Papa Candy” because he always had a sweet treat for them. His 13-year-old grandson, Wyatt, held an extra special place in his heart and was proudly considered his best friend.

In his free time, Matthew enjoyed hunting, fishing, playing darts, and sipping a good rum and Coke. He was a fan of old rock and roll and often sang country music to Claudene. A talented cook, he ruled the kitchen, with family favorites including chicken fried steak, lasagna, cheesecake, and root beer.

In addition to his wife, Claudene, he is survived by his mother, Donna Burkett, of Goodyear, AZ; his children: Bryanna Trueblood (Richard), of Sedalia; Matthew “Boy” Burkett II (Ashley), of Surprise, AZ; Rose Burkett (Josh “Dummy”), of Phoenix, AZ; Daniel Burkett (Sierra “Nevada”), of Sedalia; Austin Burkett (Valerie), of Sedalia; Jessica “Remembrance” Burkett, of Sedalia; and Carolyn Ornelas, of Phoenix, AZ; his grandchildren: Xavier, Mitchell, Adam, Aden, Ace, Izzy, Milik, Wyatt, Jaeda, Batman, Meilani, JoJo, Handsome, Selena-Rayne, Waylon Jones, and Josiah; his siblings, Christopher Burkett, of Kentucky, and Elizabeth Burkett, of Goodyear, AZ; his sister-in-law, Brigette Williams, of Michigan; his mother-in-law, Grace “The Crazy Old Bat” Donnelly, of Sedalia; and his step mother-in-law, Aggie Jones, of Sedalia.

He was preceded in death by his father, Bruce Burkett, and a brother, Scott Burkett.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.