Big John

John Earl Burningham (79) April 1st 1947 - July 13th 2026. Born to Cifford Earl Burningham and Jenni Maurine Nesbit at Utah Valley Hospital.

John met the love of his life Carla Jo Badura 51 years ago where she fell for his rugged good looks. Married on November 21st 1975 where they began their life together in Provo.

John was raised on a farm in American Fork where he earned his education, this is where he fell in love with horses and dogs. John was a member of the church of Jesus christ of latter day saints where he received his eagle scout award.

John started working for Geneva Steel at the age of 18 where he worked till the doors closed. John also worked for the Provo School district as a crossing guard then a bus aide till he retired at the age of 62.

John's younger years were spent horseback riding and hunting, he was a member of the Gents car club where his love of cars was born, his prize possession was his 1976 F250 Ford Truck ( Old Blue).

John was a Miami Dolphins, Oakland A's and Utah Utes fan. His hobbies were collecting antics and memorabilia.

John was a true cowboy he loved the old western TV shows along with John Wayne movies, he always had some type of western on when anyone came to visit.

John's later years were spent going on road trips with his sister Deann , niece's , nephews and spouses, trips to Cancun and his most favorite Disneyland.

John loved his family especially his children first came Ramey J then Josey dad was content with his 2 girls until mom said nope then came his boy Jeremy Thor. John supported anything his kids did however his love was watching his boy play baseball he never missed a game. One of John's final trips was to take a ride and watch his grandson Emmitt play his first coach pitch game of the season.

John had a special love for all his niece's and nephews there was nothing he wouldn't do for them.

John is survived by his love and partner Carla , his children Ramey (Eric) Noland, Josey (Lynn) Gillman and JT (Sharon) Burningham, along with his grandchildren Kimberlyn, Landon, Makaylee, Hailie, Kortnee, Brinlee, Ashlee and Emmitt.

John is also survived by his two sisters Deann Welsh and SheRie Huggard and brother Larry Burningham.

John will be remembered for his big heart, immaculate yard and love for his family, even though we are going to miss him dearly we find peace knowing he has been reunited with his parents Cliff and Maurine Burningham. Sister Shannon Burningham and brother Kevin Burningham.

The family would like to thank the Dr's and nurses who took great care of him while in the ICU at Utah Valley Hospital.

John was a simple low key man where his final wishes were to be cremated with graveside services where he will be placed next to his parents on Monday July 27th 2026 at 10 am in the American Fork cemetery. The family has requested all to join and meet at the cemetery by 9:45 am to witness John's final ride in old blue. The family will have a celebration of life more information will be given at a later time.