Jason Ellis Burnham, 53, passed away July 18, 2024, peacefully surrounded by his loving family. He lived his life as an amazing husband, father, son, uncle, friend, mentor and coach. He touched many lives throughout his short time on this earth and always left them better for it.
Jason was born Jan. 1, 1971, to Larry and Polly Burnham in Tenino, Washington. He graduated from Tenino High School in 1989. Jason met his best friend, Shellie Hartman, 39 years ago and they were about to celebrate their 33rd wedding anniversary on Aug. 5. They delighted in creating and raising their family, taking adventures, checking off their bucket list and mostly just loving each other.
He introduced his daughter to a love of horses and competitive riding and modeled for her the qualities she should expect in a life partner. He was honored to walk her down the aisle and welcome his grandson into the world last year.
Jake taught his son everything he knew and was his best friend. They shared many hunting adventures together, exploring every space in Washington and journeyed to far off places including Alaska, New Mexico, Colorado, Nevada, Idaho, Oregon, Montana, Wyoming and, the ultimate, South Africa.
He created peace and solace for their family by making their yard beautiful with his green thumb, always growing beautiful flowers, creating Bonsai, puttering in his greenhouse and raising bees.
His wife and remaining family will continue to celebrate his life and legacy sharing love, memories and the many lessons he taught them.
Among those who will always cherish and remember his presence in their life include his beautiful daughter, Amanda Serrano; her husband, Frederico; their son, Mateo; and their puppy, Lilo; his gentle giant son, Jack Burnham; his girlfriend, Bri Eads; and their yellow lab, Lucy; father, Larry Burnham; brother, Larry Burnham Jr (Diana); nephews Tyler and Zach Burnham; brother, Ryan Burnham (Rhonda); nephews, Hayden and Cameron Burnham; mother-in-law, Carolyn Hartman; sister-in-law, Stacie Weedon (Chris); and niece, Zanayah Weedon; nephew, Joshua Davis (Maranda); nephews Lane and Owen Davis; niece, Ellie Davis; niece, Amy Davis; and nephew, Luke Brewer; sister-in-law, Sheri Smaciarz (Tracy); niece, Rachel Mueller (Steven); nephew, Callen Muellerl and niece Taylor Duncan (boyfriend Max Hartford); and Hunter Smaciarz fi(fiancée Candace).
He was preceded in death by his mother, Polly Burnham.
In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations in his honor be given to Youth Outdoors Unlimited https://www.youthoutdoorsu.
Arrangements are under the care of Woodlawn Funeral Home, Olympia, Washington.
