James Burton's Obituary
James “Jim” Burton, of Dallas Texas, passed away peacefully on September 16, 2025, and was immediately received into the arms of Jesus, whom he loved so much. Jim was born January 21, 1936, in Highland Park, Michigan, to Arlen and Sarah Hellwarth. He lived a long life full of faith, love, adventure, success, fun, learning, and family. He was raised in Michigan, and he attended Michigan State University (Sparty Football Team), where he was a loyal member of Alpha Tau Omega fraternity. He played both offense and defense on the University of Michigan’s football team, playing in two Rose Bowls. Jim received his degree in Mechanical Engineering and was a successful businessman and entrepreneur in both California and Texas. He was CEO of L&H AIRCO, Technology Resources Investment Co, Speakeasy Telecommunications, and TELEQUIP Labs, Inc. Jim served on the board of Big Brothers of the Greater San Francisco area and was honored as one of SMU Cox’s School of Business top 100 entrepreneurs two years in a row. He served on the Country Place board of directors, the community where he created a home with his wife, Johnna over the last three decades. With his wife, he traveled all over the US and abroad. They developed friendships in various places and enjoyed learning about other cultures. He was known as a God-fearing man and loyal patriot. He loved his country and served in the US Army. He was loyal member of The Freedom Project, Alliance Defending Freedom, National Rifle Association, and Wounded Warrior Project.
He was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers, Robert, John and George. He is survived by his wife, Johnna, and two stepchildren, Michelle Mathews (Vern), and Michael Edwards (Lisa LeBlanc). He is also survived by a granddaughter, Morgan Lerwick (Brandon), and numerous nieces and nephews. Though his presence will be deeply missed, Jim’s spirit will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew him.
Please join us in celebrating the wonderful life of our Jim on Friday, October 10.
Visitation: 9:30am-10:30am Wildwood Chapel of Rest-Restland Funeral Home, Dallas, Tx Celebration of Life: 10:30am-11:30am Wildwood Chapel of Rest-Restland Funeral Home, Dallas, TX
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