Julie A. Burton

Julie Anne Burton (1958-2024) Julie was a pillar for her friends and family. Strong, generous, and always encouraging others to lean on her, in good times and bad. A person of varied skills and occupations throughout her life, she was flexible and always able to fill any role that was needed. Julie Burton, 66, of Linden, Michigan, died in Ann Arbor of after a short, courageous battle with cancer on July 15, 2024. She was born in Flint in 1958 to Jack and Leona Rehbein. Childhood summers were spent in Ludington at her Grandma Anne’s house with her family. She and her siblings, Kathy, Terry, John, and Mike maintained close relationships throughout her life, with her often acting as the cornerstone to keep everyone together. Julie attended Powers High School before starting a family. She worked in schools through most of her adult life starting at Holly Schools, then Holly Academy and completing her career at Clarkston Schools. She took on whatever role was needed but her passion was working as a paraprofessional with students. Julie met the love of their life, Brian, in 1976 while working at Red Lobster. Their relationship was teasing and playful but truly affectionate and filled with love. Excited to start their new lives together, the two were married on June 23,1979 at St. Luke’s in Flint, Michigan. They celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary this year, still as close and in love as ever. Julie and Brian, ready to start a family of their own, had two children together, Meghan and Kevin. Even as they started lives of their own, Julie never let a day go by without speaking to her children. Julie instilled tremendous generosity in her children, teaching by example. Aside from the short time Meghan lived out of state, weekly dinners at Julie and Brian’s house are a cherished tradition that will continue. Though she wore a lot of hats in her life, Julie’s favorite role was that as a grandparent. Julie treasured her time with her 3 grandkids, Liam, Keegan and Cormac, and loved being their Nana. Julie treated everyone well, but the kids always got special treatment. Keeping her pantry stocked with their favorite snacks, making a second dinner in case the kids don’t like the first, and personalized gift baskets for every holiday. She had a very large friend circle. Julie was very good at keeping up with those close to her and once you became her friend, you were a friend for life. Julie and Brian had a large group of close friends in Flushing that were all starting their lives at the same time. They remained close throughout their lives, even as they spread throughout the state. Her closest friend was Jennie Nelson. They spoke often, supporting each other as they watched their children grow, graduate from Lake Fenton High School, and start their own lives. She also had a soft spot for her furry friends, treating them the same way she treated people. She always let them be true to themselves, letting their individual personalities shine rather than trying to change them. Jake and Lewis will miss her dearly but will be well taken care of by Brian and Kevin. Julie will always be remembered for her generosity and selflessness. We’ll always remember her willingness to pick up the phone and give advice in times of need, the plates of snacks, sides and desserts to make sure everyone was satisfied, and her putting everyone else first, even in her final days. We couldn’t have asked for a better nana, mother, wife, sister, aunt and friend. We will miss Julie every day and her memory will live on in the hearts of all those who loved her. Julie was preceded in death by her parents, Jack and Leona, and is survived by her husband Brian, daughter Meghan (Ryan), son Kevin (Erika), grandchildren Liam, Keegan and Cormac, and siblings, Kathy (Phil), Terry (Greg), John (Jeannie) and Mike (Kristy), and many nieces, nephews and friends. A celebration of life will take place at Julie and Brian’s home on September 7, 2024. Additional details to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations to Adopt a Pet in Fenton would be greatly appreciated.

Julie A. Burton

May 8, 1958 - July 15, 2024