Leslie W. Burkins 

On Monday, March 2nd, Leslie W. Burkins found his final peace at home, surrounded by the deep love of his family. While it is hard to say goodbye, his family finds comfort in knowing his son, Rodney, was waiting to take his Dad’s hand and guide him home to heaven. 

 

A Legacy of Strength and Grit 

Leslie lived 86 years exactly the way he wanted to. He was a man of remarkable strength and a famously strong will; he firmly believed that if something needed to be done, it was best to do it yourself. He found his rhythm on the open road as a truck driver, taking immense pride in the miles he covered. He was a "one-of-a-kind original" with a sharp wit—the kind of man who expected you to "give some back," and it was in those spirited exchanges that his true warmth really shone. 

 

Leslie’s greatest life achievement was the 65-year marriage he built with his wife, Sandy. She was his everything, his best friend, and the absolute love of his life. As the heart of the family, she was his light, and he adored her more than words can say. Their long path together proved that love can survive anything; no matter the hurdles, they made it through side-by-side. Theirs is a story of incredible strength—a steady, unbreakable victory of love that will never be forgotten. 

 

Family Left to Cherish His Memory 

Leslie is now reunited with his loved ones who passed before him, likely sharing a cold beer and finding true peace. He leaves behind a family that will forever miss his spirit and his laughs: 

His Wife, Sandy: His partner in all things, whom he adored with his whole heart and loved more than anyone in this world. 

His Son, Todd: Who was his father’s great pride; Leslie held him very dear and was so incredibly proud of the man and the hard worker he is. 

 

The Next Generation: His granddaughter, Brittany, and his great-grandchildren, Amiyah and Sage. They were his pride and joy, and he cherished every moment spent with them. 

His Siblings: Alice, Florence, Bernice, and Conley, all of whom he cared for and truly valued. 

Leslie loved his family and the freedom of the road. While the world feels a bit quieter without him, we are all better for having known him. He will be truly missed. 

Funeral services will be 12:00 noon on Friday, March 13, 2026, in the Brian Mark Funeral Home, 1000 Inman Parkway, Beloit, WI, 53511. A visitation of remembrance will be from 11-time of service at the funeral home. Burial will be in Floral Lawn Cemetery, South Beloit, IL.