Brayden S. Burnett

Brayden was born on June 15, 2005, in Marquette, Michigan, to Jason F. Burnett and Katherine “Kate” M. (Bennett) Burnett. He graduated from Marquette Senior High School in 2023 and went on to complete Northern Michigan University’s Middle College Program, where he earned his welding certification in 2024.

Brayden worked tirelessly to earn all 13 available welding certifications, a remarkable accomplishment that reflected his determination, discipline, and pride in his craft. From his cohort, he was chosen to receive the Cody Revord Exceptional Student of the Year Award, an honor that spoke to his strong work ethic and character.

He began working for the City of Marquette on his 16th birthday, demonstrating his eagerness and hard work from a young age. Over the years, he also worked for Swick and DURR as a welder in De Pere, Wisconsin. Brayden was a proud member of UA Local 400 Plumbers and Steamfitters and was most recently employed by Hurckman Mechanical, fulfilling his apprenticeship at Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding in Sturgeon Bay, an achievement he was extremely proud of as he looked forward to his future in the trades.

Brayden had a big heart and old-fashioned values beyond his years. He was kind, respectful, and always willing to help others. He loved the outdoors, especially riding his dirt bike – particularly doing wheelies – and was an excellent mountain biker. He also enjoyed snowmobiling, fishing, golfing, motorcycles, and firearms.

Some of Brayden’s most cherished memories were made during his younger years at his Gaga’s and Papa’s camp, where he loved four-wheeling – and was equally fond of getting stuck in the mud. He spent nearly every weekend there growing up. His love for adventure and the natural world included unforgettable trips to Yellowstone National Park with his brother, Jack, and his Gaga and Papa, adventures that showcased his curiosity, joy, and love of wide-open spaces.

He also cultivated an incredibly close friendship circle lovingly referred to as “the boys”. His friends were more than companions; they were a chosen family sharing countless adventures, laughs, and memories together. Everyone who knew Brayden seemed to carry a personal and meaningful connection to him – a testament to the way he genuinely cared for others.

He shared a very special bond with his Grandpa Greg, treasuring their hunting trips, including the unforgettable memory of getting his first buck together – a moment etched in both their hearts. He was Grandpa’s little best friend and will be forever.

Brayden shared a uniquely deep and incredibly close bond with his Auntie Jacqueline, who lovingly cared for him every summer of his childhood. Their days were filled with adventure and imagination; endless hours building sandcastles, making forts, and chasing joy wherever it led. Their relationship was one of deep love, and laughter, a connection that shaped both of their lives and will live on in cherished memories forever.

From an early age Brayden treasured visits with his Aunt Lydia in Chicago, trips filled with laughter and fun that helped shape his adventurous spirit. Later in life he came to love traveling to Nashville – a place that held special meaning and many happy memories.

He cherished his time spent with Grandma Shell, where their shared goofy personalities always shined. He enjoyed his very close relationship with his cousins, Evan and Noah, constantly razzing each other over welding skills, driving skills, and the constant rotation of vehicles.

Brayden’s younger brother, Jack, looked up to him deeply, inspired by his determination, kindness, and the example he set in every part of his life. Jack’s passions are a reflection of Brayden’s influence. Starting with mastering wheelies on mountain bikes and continuing onto motocross and snowmobiling.

Brayden is survived by his loving parents, Kate (Keith Dobbratz) Burnett and Jason (RachelCarlson) Burnett; his brother, Jack Burnett; grandparents, Diana (Chris) Dykstra, Greg (Kallie)Bennett, and Michele (David Jokela) Burnett; aunts and uncles, Jacqueline (Drew) Wagner,Lydia (Brandon Carnes) Bennett-Carnes, Nicole Smith, and Leo (Jennifer) Burnett; godparents,Nickie and Brian Miller; cousins, Colin, Evan, Noah. Brayden held a special place in the hearts of his younger cousins, Elliott, Nadia, and Enzo, who adored him and looked up to him in every way.

He was preceded in death by his Grandpa Archie Bazinet.

Brayden was a source of immense pride and joy to his entire family and all who knew him. He was a loving and inspiring older brother. Our golden boy – the one we were all so incredibly proud of – whose kindness, strength, and presence brought warmth and light wherever he went.

His passing leaves a deep and unfillable hole in our hearts, a loss that will be felt forever. Though his time with us was far too short, the love he gave and the memories he created will live on endlessly in the hearts of all who knew him.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, December 21, 2025, at Canale-Tonella Funeral Home from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m., with a time of sharing memories beginning at 1:00 p.m.

Following the services, friends and family are welcome to join in celebrating Brayden’s life at the home of his grandparents, Chris & Diana Dykstra, 818 S. Lake St., Marquette, MI.

In lieu of flowers, the family plans to create a scholarship in Brayden’s memory to support a hardworking student pursuing a career in welding – a trade Brayden was deeply proud of.

Memorials will be accepted by the family until the scholarship is formally established.

Canale-Tonella Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting Brayden’s family. Memories and condolences may be shared at canalefuneral.com