Heaven gained an angel, and he will be missed beyond any words. He was a terrific father who always did everything in the world possible for his family. Our hearts are shattered. We love you, Mike!

On March 24, 2026, our community lost an incredible man far too soon. Michael “Mike” Burnison was more than just a name — he was a devoted husband, a loving father, an amazing son, a supportive big brother, a loyal friend, and a mentor to so many young athletes.

Michael was born on January 3,1982 in Pensacola, FL to Thomas Burnison and Michele (Messner) Burnison. He was followed by his sister, Carly, and his brother, Daniel. He spent his childhood years growing up in Navarre, FL graduating from Navarre High School in 2000. From a young age he was active in many sports – baseball, basketball, flag football and volleyball. He was a boy scout and played the piano. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and surfing. Michael was very creative as a young child. He enjoyed drawing, painting, woodburning, basketweaving, jewelry-making, knitting, and many activities with his creative grandmother. After high school, Michael attended college in Pensacola studying astronomy for a time. In 2010 he moved to Stoner, CO where he pursued multiple occupations such as car repair, food service, and woodworking/cabinetry. If something was broken, he could fix it. Michael began working at Mesa Verde National Park in 2019, most recently serving as a manager at the Mesa Verde Association.

Mike’s life was rooted in the things that mattered most: his family, his community, and the people for whom he showed up every single day. Whether he was at the ballfield coaching softball and baseball, spending time outdoors hunting, helping another, or simply being present for those he loved, Mike gave his whole heart to everything he did.

His presence for his baseball team and the Cortez Panthers softball organization left a lasting mark on countless athletes and fans who will carry his lessons with them for the rest of their lives.

To his family, he was everything. He was a steady foundation, and a source of strength, laughter and unconditional love. One friend said that this loss has left a Mike-sized hole in our world.

Michael is survived by his wife, VeeAnn Roberts, daughters, Lily Roberts and Mikayla Burnison, and son, Jacob Burnison, his father Thomas Burnison, (Jacklyn) his mother Michele Burnison (Stan Manning), a sister, Carly Pressley (Jonathon), and brother Daniel Burnison (Olivia), his cousin, Michael Messner, and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Mike’s legacy will live on in the lives he touched, the lessons he taught, and the love he gave so freely. He will never be forgotten.

Funeral Service will be held on Friday, April 3, 2026, at 10:00 AM at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 26525 County Rd. M, Cortez, CO 81321. Interment will be at Cortez Cemetery, followed by a luncheon back at the church.