Dr. Darrell John Burnett

Dr. Darrell John Burnett, aged 82, of Laguna Niguel, CA, passed away on August 26th, 2023.

He was born November 14th, 1940, in Cincinnati, Ohio to Jule and Marian Burnett.

Darrell was known for his infectious sense of humor and love of games, always ensuring those in his company were filled with laughter and joy. A gifted public speaker and published author, he worked as a clinical and sports psychologist, helping others with wisdom and kindness until retiring in 2021.

He dedicated nearly thirty years to the Little League Challenger Division for children with special needs, greatly increasing the division's visibility, inclusivity, and positive impact. For his involvement, he was honored as the 2001 Laguna Niguel Citizen of the Year. In 2007, after being honored as the Little League Challenger Volunteer of the Year, he was invited to join the Board of Directors of Little League International as an at-large member.

A beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, coach, and friend, Darrell will be missed by all who knew him.

Darrell was preceded in death by his father, Jule, mother, Marian, and brothers Dale and Robert. He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Susann Burnett, his children Jill Hill (Brent Hill), Tom Burnett, and Matt Burnett (Shawna Burnett), his sister Joy Weidner (Paul Weidner), eight grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

A funeral service is scheduled for Tuesday, September 12 ^th at 11am at the Mission Basilica in San Juan Capistrano, California. Donations in his memory may be made to the Challenger Division of Little League at: https://www.littleleague.org/who-we-are/making-a-donation/ .