SHERIDAN - Services for Burton Sobotka, 77, have not occurred. Cremation has taken place.

He died on May 31, 2008, at Memorial Hospital of Sheridan County.

He was born on Jan. 28, 1931, in Gothemburg, Neb., to John and Martha Sobotka.

He enlisted in the Navy in 1951, and served until his honorable discharge as Senior Chief Radioman in 1972. During his time in the service he visited many places around the world such as Brazil, Japan, Cuba, and Korea.

Although such conflicts as the Korean War, Cuban Missile Crisis, and Vietnam War brought him to these places, he still felt fortunate to see these parts of the world.

He served on many aircraft carriers such as the USS Yorktown, USS Princeton, and the USS Enterprise.

He married Sharon Doyle on Sept. 19, 1956, in Sheridan.

During his retirement years he enjoyed hunting, fishing in the Big Horn Mountains, camping, playing cards, doing Indian beadwork, gardening, watching M.A.S.H and the sci-fi channel, reading, and spending time with his family.

He was also a member of the VFW and American Legion.

He was extremely intelligent and although quiet most of the time, there was something about him that commanded respect.

He was a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather.

He is survived by his wife, Sharon; and daughter, Melvie Bates both of Sheridan; his stepson, Jim Walthall, of Aurora, Colo.; a daughter-in-law; four grandchildren; two great grandchildren; brother Dwight, and two sisters, Janet and Virginia.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Kane Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

In lieu of flowers the family has requested that memorials be made so that trees be planted in city parks in his name in care of Patricia Owings, PO Box 205, Sheridan, WY 82801.

Casper Star-Tribune - June 11, 2008