Donny "Don" W. Burlison

Donny “Don” W. Burlison, 75, passed away on September 27, 2026, at Hays Medical Center in Hays, Kansas. He was born on November 19, 1950, to Donzil and Reba (Cash) Burlison in Dyess, Arkansas.

Don grew up in Memphis and Hendersonville, Tennessee, and also spent time living in Texas and California. He served in the United States Army from 1967 to 1970, including service in Vietnam from 1968 to 1969.

Few things meant more to Don than his country. No one was prouder to be an American, and his respect for those who served never faded. He was a dedicated supporter of the VFW and Kansas Honor Flight and was always willing to give his time and support to fellow veterans.

On May 21, 1973, Don married Sandra “Sandy” Charles in Ventura, California. Together they built a life and family and shared 37 years together until her passing.

For 20 years, Don operated Burlison Contract Pumping. He never truly retired. Even when his health began to limit what he could physically do, he stayed involved and continued working in whatever way he could. That was Don—if something mattered to him, he was all in. He believed in doing things 100 percent and doing them right.

Cars were one of Don’s greatest passions. He thoroughly enjoyed them, took tremendous pride in his show cars, and loved the friendships and camaraderie that came with the car community. One of his proudest accomplishments was restoring the Texaco Station in Palco, which became a gathering place and hub for car shows, friends, and fellow enthusiasts. He was also a strong supporter of the Lone Wolf Car Club and deeply valued the friendships he made there.

Don was known for his loyalty and generosity. There was little he would not do for the people he cared about. He would go to the ends of the earth for family and friends, often doing far more than anyone expected. Whether it was helping a friend, supporting a veteran, or standing behind a cause he believed in, Don gave everything he had.

Even near the end of his life, Don was still looking ahead. He had several meaningful projects and plans already in motion, many centered around the people, organizations, and causes closest to his heart. Those efforts will continue to unfold in the future, carrying forward the values and passions that meant so much to him and continuing the legacy he worked so hard to build.

Don will be remembered for his patriotism, determination, generosity, loyalty, and the wholehearted way he approached life. He loved his family and friends deeply, supported the things he believed in without hesitation, and left an impact that will continue to be felt by many.

Don is survived by his sons, Ben Burlison of Osborne, Kansas, and Aaron (Michelle) Burlison of Palco, Kansas; and three grandchildren, Alexa Burlison, Nicholas Burlison, and Katelyn Burlison.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Donzil and Reba Burlison; wife, Sandy; son, Daniel Burlison; and brother, Ricky Burlison.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at 10AM at the Redline Church in Palco, KS. Burial will follow at Pleasantview Cemetery. Visitation will be on Friday, 5-8PM with the family receiving friends 6-7PM at the funeral home in Plainville.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to Kansas Honor Flight and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd St, Plainville, KS 67663.