Donald Gene Burbank passed away at his home in Golden, Colorado, on August 25, 2024, at the age of 79. In true Burbank fashion, when Don was diagnosed with terminal gastric cancer, he told his doctor he would kick cancer’s butt. He did so with contagious optimism for more than a year.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Ella Burbank (Schneider). He is survived by his wife Toby, his brother Jim and his wife Pat, his children Dani, Jeff, and Julie, their spouses Andi and Jason, seven grandchildren, and his beloved dogs.

He was known as Boss, Dad, Papa, Brain, and Coach. His energy and passion for life were evident in his early hobbies of fixing engines and taunting the local sheriff. He continued fixing throughout his entire life but also raced boats, four-wheeled through the foothills of Colorado, and rode snowmobiles, motorcycles, and horses. He also skied, traveled, coached football, and wrangled hogs, just to name a few.

Don was a master storyteller, captivating everyone around him with his humor and charisma. He was one of the original “influencers” and could talk anyone into doing nearly anything (stealing cars, riding roller coasters, or jumping off the roof, to name a few).

Don turned his hobby of fixing engines into a remarkable career, earning the prestigious FAA Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Award for 50 years of service well before he retired. His journey began as an airline mechanic when he joined the Navy at 18—a decision recommended by the sheriff, as Don told the story. He went on to work for Frontier Airlines and ultimately retired as United Airlines’ Senior Vice President of Europe, South America, and the Eastern United States. Even in retirement, Don remained dedicated to aviation, volunteering to rebuild aircraft at the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum, serving as flight crew for the B-17, and leading the Retired United Airlines Employees Association as its President.

Don loved animals. His households always had pets—fish, cats, dogs, horses, and more dogs, if possible. He also helped his kids raise hogs, sheep, and even cows one year. Don embraced all those around him. After marrying Toby later in life, he took great pride in his blended family, welcoming her adult children—John, Alli, Julie—and their children into his life.

Everyone has a story to tell about Don, and they are almost all funny or inspirational. Please come share your stories as we celebrate Don’s life on September 15, 2024, from 1-4 pm at the Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum.