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On July 21, 2013, in Hagerstown, MD, Bruce Burnett died in a motorcycle accident. Born May 21, 1957 in Lynchburg, VA, he is the son of Roland Rudolph Burnett, Sr. of Madison Heights, VA and Nancy B. Hall of Mason Neck, VA. He retired in January 2013 from with the Federal Government where he worked for the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), U.S Army, and State Department.

Bruce began his remarkable 35-year career with the CIA in 1977, advancing from the post of security clerk to end his service last year as a manager in the finance research unit.   As a specialist in finance support functions,  Bruce served mainly with the Directorate of Support and the National Clandestine Service, travelling to Agency posts in some 30 countries throughout Latin America,  Asia – including in Afghanistan -- Europe and the Middle East, as well as holding many high level positions at Agency Headquarters in Washington (Langley, VA). 

He received numerous Exceptional Performance Awards and two components in which he served received Meritorious Unit Awards.  In 2012, at the end of his career,  he was given a War Zone Coin for  his service in Afghanistan. 

He was a member of the American Legion Francis Scott Key Post #11 of Frederick, MD where he was an American Legion Rider and Color Guard and Rifle Team volunteer. He is survived by two sons and a daughter: Matthew Ryan Burnett, Christopher Michael Burnett, and Michelle Elaine Burnett of Accident, MD; a step daughter, Kira Muren of Frederick, MD; 3 grandchildren; his parents; a brother and two sisters: Roland Burnett, Jr. of Roanoke Rapids, NC; Veronica Brown of Rustburg, VA; and Regina D. Hall of Springfield, VA; and loving girlfriend, Rose Rich, of Frederick, MD.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Wounded Warriors or Home for our Troops.

Photos and articles

Photo album

Funeral procession photos from the Frederick News-Post

Bruce Burnett killed in motorcycle crash, WJLA Channel 7 Washington, DC 
 
Frederick American Legion to honor man who died in crash, Frederick News-Post

Girlfriend witnessed Frederick man's fatal motorcycle crash, Frederick News-Post

Obituary July 24, 2013, Frederick News Post 

Motorcycle Deaths Get a Closer Look, August 31, 2013, Frederick News Post  


Viewing

Thursday, July 25 from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Stauffer Funeral Home 1621 Opossumtown Pike Frederick, Maryland 21702

Memorial Service/Reception Friday, July 26 Viewing from 2-3 p.m. and Memorial at 3 p.m. at Stauffer Funeral Home   Reception follows the service: American Legion Post #11 1450 Taney Avenue Frederick, MD 21702

Graveside Service / Burial Monday, July 29, 1 p.m.  Rocky Gap Cemetery 14205 Pleasant Valley Drive Flintstone, MD 20530

Tributes

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Chris’s Activities
May 5, 2021
May 5, 2021
Hey uncle. I miss you so much and what I wouldn’t give to see you again. I have your coat on and I love it so much. I cannot believe you were this cool. I hope you are doing well in heaven. Your brother is doing great. His daughters have had babies. One has two children and another has one. They are still really young as in two are still babies. Dad or your brother has had some health issues but still is doing great. He has told me so many story’s about you. Last time I saw you I was baby. I am 12 now. I love you so much and hope you’re doing great. Bye.
Veronica Brown
May 21, 2015
May 21, 2015
Bruce, you would be 58 today, Happy Birthday! I have a heavy heart today. Teresa died this past Friday, and I hope that she went to heaven, and if she is there that she finds you today and will have a birthday dance with you. I will be picking up her ashes today and am terrified of opening them, and I don't know why. I will share them with her father and children. I am grieving so and can't stop crying. I have been going through her house this week, gathering things for a yard and furniture sale, have to have this done by May 31st. If it weren't for my Kelsey I don't know what I would do. I always look at your pictures but can't do it today, another day for sure. I love you, my precious brother!
Yvonne Gleason
August 27, 2013
August 27, 2013
Regina, my heart is with you and your family at this time. Though I did not have the chance to meet your brother it is very clear that he has touched the hearts and minds of many and he has affected them deeply. Many blessings to you and your whole family. And blessings to your beloved brother Bruce.
John Sojka
August 2, 2013
August 2, 2013
Regina,

My heart goes out to you for all the tragedies that you and your family have had to endure in recent years.  I am glad I got to meet Bruce and your father. Who would have known this motorcycle guy was doing spooky work at the CIA? I will keep you and your mom in my prayers.
rose rich
July 27, 2013
July 27, 2013
Baby, people are asking me these days if they can do anything for me. My response is "Do you perform Miracles" because the only thing I want is You back home with me in my life. We loved each other unconditionally and there was no other perfect pair than you and I. We completed each other and now my part of the completeness is gone. I will love you FOREVER AND EVER AMEN! I Love you Babe!
Dawn Smith
July 26, 2013
July 26, 2013
Rose and family Bruce was a great man to know and will be missed not just at the Legion but all so as are neighbor !! Rip Bruce Sarge and Dawn Smith and family
robert stoller
July 25, 2013
July 25, 2013
Rose, Bruce was a kind of man who everyone admired. He was dedicated to you and your children. No one in your life has ever given you the happiness and hope for future that Bruce did. You were perfect for each other. The few times that we were around him it was easy to see why you loved him so much! He was a great man who in the eyes of many will never be replaced! RIP Bruce
robert stoller
July 25, 2013
July 25, 2013
Rose, Bruce was the kind of man that made everyone feel at ease.The few times that we saw him gave a clear understanding of why you loved him so much. I had never seen you happier than what you have been for the past few years and that was all thanks to Bruce. We will forever be in his debt for his love, kindness and protection over you. He made your life complete. RIP Bruce
Lois Iovacchini-Crites
July 25, 2013
July 25, 2013
Words can't express my deepest sympathy and heartache that I feel for a dear old friend and the love she lost. I look at all the pictures and all I see is happiness and love in both your eyes and smiles, as a friend I can offer you my heart and my shoulder. Remember you are loved by family and friends, and you will always be loved and cherished by Bruce. Love you friend, Lois
Elaine Pepe
July 24, 2013
July 24, 2013
You were a good dad to my grandkids. Thank you for that. Your life was too short - you did not have time to enjoy your retirement years.
Don't worry everyone will watch over your kids.
Fred Edwards
July 23, 2013
July 23, 2013
Nancy,
My deepest condolences for your family's loss. We are currently in Maine and will be unable to attend the funeral. You are in our prayers.
michael capone
July 23, 2013
July 23, 2013
We are so saddened by the news of Bruce's passing. Marie used to watch my son (now 18) when he was young and Bruce and Marie were a big part of his life then. Bruce became our friend and we shared many motorcycle rides and back yard parties together. He was one of the nicest guys and he will be missed terribly but never forgotten. We've lost a good man. God bless his family and friends.
Anna Kostyla
July 23, 2013
July 23, 2013
Matt, Chris and Michelle - I am so sorry for your loss.  Bruce was a terrific father and person and will be missed by all that shared a part of his life.  All your wonderful memories of times spent with your father will get you through the hard days ahead.
Christine Starcher
July 23, 2013
July 23, 2013
Rose, I am so very sorry for your loss as well as the family of Bruce. I pray that you and all of Bruce's family can find peace, understanding, and the love of our Heavenly Father to get all of you through this tragic time in your lives. Love and prayers.
Janette Moman
July 23, 2013
July 23, 2013
We are so sorry to here about the tragic passing of Bruce, such a fine, upstanding man and patriot. We are praying for your family at First Baptist Church of Springfield. Sincerely, Chris and Janette Moman
gale lashley
July 23, 2013
July 23, 2013
From all of us here at Enviva, Northampton-
Our deepest sympathy and compassion are with you during the loss of your dear loved one Bruce. Just remember God's grace and strength rest upon you and your family and that He will sustain you through this darkest hour and beyond.
gale lashley
July 23, 2013
July 23, 2013
From all of us here at Enviva, Northampton-
Our deepest sympathy and compassion are with you during the loss of your dear loved one Bruce. Just remember God's grace and strength rest upon you and your family and that He will sustain you through this darkest hour and beyond.
Diana Long
July 23, 2013
July 23, 2013
To Rose and to Bruce's family. I am so sorry for your loss. Bruce was such a super nice man. I ail always remember the smile on his face every Friday evening as I served him his drinks at the legion. Bruce was always smiling and always happy. He will be missed at the Post Home. Rose we will always be there for you.
Theresa Earp
July 23, 2013
July 23, 2013
Roy and I are heartbroken. Rose, and all of both your family members, we pray for you and wish you comfort and peace. Bruce was a great guy and he will be greatly missed!
Robin Austin
July 23, 2013
July 23, 2013
Rose and Bruce's Family, We are so sorry for your loss. Please know that you all are in our thoughts and prayers. We will always remember all the good times you had at the American Legion, and what a pleasure you were Bruce to wait on...always a smile on your face! May God be with you all. Fondly, Bruce & Robin Austin
Veronica Brown
July 23, 2013
July 23, 2013
Bruce, as your sister I knew you as my little brother and watched you grow into a wonderful man. I remember one time you came to my house one weekend with three small children and got to experience what a wonderful dad you were. They have grown into amazing adult children now. Your life was cut short and we will all slowly heal through guidance from our Lord. I will love you forever. RIP
dajohn jones
July 22, 2013
July 22, 2013
Some people come into our lives and quickly go. You left your footprints on my hearts, and I haven't been the same since I met you. I looked up to you. I'm not saying goodbye, it's more like see you later. Goodbyes are not forever, Goodbyes are not the end, They simply mean I'll miss you until we meet again! R.i.p B.C.B
Kimberly Lavelle
July 22, 2013
July 22, 2013
In ways we do not understand, our loved one will be present in our lives forever. Something good will happen tomorrow or the day after. Keep the faith of GOD and love will lead you through this horrible pain. My condolences.
GENE BUTT
July 22, 2013
July 22, 2013
Bruce was my dearest and closest friend. Actually, Bruce was more of my Brother than a friend, not by blood, but by choice. Bruce was just so much fun to be around, and we always had the best of times together, and those memories will always hold a special place in my heart, and never to be forgotten. I will always miss you Bruce, until our glorious reunion in Heaven when we meet again.
Jami Brake
July 22, 2013
July 22, 2013
Rose, I am so very sorry for your loss. Our hearts and prayers are with you. If you need anything, please let us know. Bruce was one of the nicest and kindest person I've ever met. He would do anything for the Legion and the Legion Riders. There will forever be a void in the Legion family. Jami and Keith.
Liz Lozano
July 22, 2013
July 22, 2013
To my sweet friend Rose and Bruce's family,

There really aren't any words that can be said now that will make your pain go away, but there are many wonderful memories that you all share and will sustain you. My prayers love and sympathy are with you now and always. May God grant you peace and comfort

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Recent Tributes
Chris’s Activities
May 5, 2021
May 5, 2021
Hey uncle. I miss you so much and what I wouldn’t give to see you again. I have your coat on and I love it so much. I cannot believe you were this cool. I hope you are doing well in heaven. Your brother is doing great. His daughters have had babies. One has two children and another has one. They are still really young as in two are still babies. Dad or your brother has had some health issues but still is doing great. He has told me so many story’s about you. Last time I saw you I was baby. I am 12 now. I love you so much and hope you’re doing great. Bye.
Veronica Brown
May 21, 2015
May 21, 2015
Bruce, you would be 58 today, Happy Birthday! I have a heavy heart today. Teresa died this past Friday, and I hope that she went to heaven, and if she is there that she finds you today and will have a birthday dance with you. I will be picking up her ashes today and am terrified of opening them, and I don't know why. I will share them with her father and children. I am grieving so and can't stop crying. I have been going through her house this week, gathering things for a yard and furniture sale, have to have this done by May 31st. If it weren't for my Kelsey I don't know what I would do. I always look at your pictures but can't do it today, another day for sure. I love you, my precious brother!
Yvonne Gleason
August 27, 2013
August 27, 2013
Regina, my heart is with you and your family at this time. Though I did not have the chance to meet your brother it is very clear that he has touched the hearts and minds of many and he has affected them deeply. Many blessings to you and your whole family. And blessings to your beloved brother Bruce.
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Recent stories

Smile big, ride fast, and rest easy

October 13, 2013
by Regina Hall

The following is the poem from Bruce's memorial and funeral. Love you and miss you big brother.
 
Gone now but not forgotten
Forever in our dreams
Your addictive smile and genuine compassion
Lay gratified by those in need.

You touched us all so sincerely
Your country, friends and family
You shared your heart, now we shall succeed
Guided by your treasured legacy.

 So dance at every party
Where you captivate the scene
On Earth you have provided,
And now you must receive.  

There are no more pains
There are no more worries 
So catch a ride on heavens highway
Where the bends are as you dream.

One day you will be waiting,
And together we will ride
Once more again together
The white line side by side.

So smile big, ride fast, and rest easy
We are all okay
Knowing you are with us
And we’ll be together again someday.

TRUE LOVE

July 24, 2013
by rose rich

Bruce and I met through our two children, My daughter Amber and His son Chris. It was Bruces Birthday and our kids had agreed that since we both were good looking and single, that we should meet up. Well, we met up and that was the beginning of a wonderful and beautfil relationship. There are many funny moments within the meeting of Bruce and I, but too much to put on here. We fell in love very quickly.  How could I not with the beautiful blue eyes and that smile that lights up a room. He was the first one to say I LOVE YOU after only two weeks. Our love was just meant to be.  It was seriously a match made in HEAVEN. We talked alot about our past lives and had so much in common with each other. We would sit on the couch and he would turn off the TV just so we could focus on each other and our feelings.  He was always there to listen to me and I was always there to listen to him. We kept each others heart beating and saved each other from the hurt we both had in our previous relationships. I LOVE this man with my heart, body and soul.  He was my Rock.  He was going to propse to me on my big birthday bash we were planning in September.  I so wanted to be his wife! I couldnt have asked for a better husband that I would have had. He and I loved each other unconditionally. We kissed each other goodbye and goodnight and said I Love You everyday. My heart stopped beating when his heart stopped beating on that Sunday morning. I Loved This Man So Much!!  Bruce, I Love You and I Miss You So Badly!!!  RIP Baby, I will see you again in Heaven.  I Love You Baby!!!

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