Travis Lee Burleson

Travis Lee Burleson, 88, passed away peacefully on December 6, 2025 at Elkhart Hospice House. A devoted husband, father, teacher, and craftsman, Travis led a life grounded in integrity, dedication, and a love of learning and community.

He was born December 12, 1936, in Elkhart IN to the late Harley and Marie (Milikin) Burleson.

Travis was a 1956 graduate of Elkhart High School. He married Linda Burleson on February 14, 2004, in Aruba.

Travis had a passion for basketball- He proudly played for Elkhart High School where his team reached the state finals, an achievement he fondly remembered throughout his life.

After high school, Travis went on to Ball State University, earning a master’s degree in Industrial Arts. He was a teacher for 20 years at Concord schools and Sunnyside high school in Arizona. In the Philippines, he enjoyed working as a Civil engineer supervising the concrete works for two different projects.

He is survived by his son Travis Darren (Ann) Burleson of Elkhart and his daughters Jody Lee Burleson of Summers, AR, and Sherry Burleson-Irsik of Mishawaka; three stepchildren Ross (Stacey) Raifsnider, Brent (Sue) Raifsnider, and Brian (Glenda) Raifsnider; his brother Fred (Jan) Pletcher and sister Marlene (Rod) Stamper; and four grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers Carl Burleson and Greg (Judy)Pletcher; and his sister Margo (Dean) Redman.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Center for Hospice Care of Elkhart https://foundationforhospice.org/donate

Celebration of Life Service will be held at 10:30 AM on Friday, December 19, 2025 at St Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church. Visitation will be held from 9:30 AM until 10:30 AM
AM until 10:30 AM.

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