About the Author

John S. Burt, direct descendant of William A. Burt, devoted more than a decade to researching and writing They Left Their Mark. Although he has authored several articles pertaining to the accomplishments of his distinguished ancestor, They Left Their Mark is John Burt’s first book and the first full biography of William A. Burt and his sons. He is honored that a noted history professor who reviewed the book wrote that the author has made a “valuable contribution to the literature of Michigan history,” and “has produced a work that would win the approval of William A. Burt and his sons.”

John holds a B.S. degree in marketing from San Jose State University. His professional career covered 47 years in sales and sales management with Pfizer Pharmaceuticals, including seven years as a consultant. He has been a licensed  Real Estate Broker in California for over 30 years.

John served six years in the U.S. Army Reserves, primarily with the 387th Military Police Battalion, and has been an active member of the Orange Rotary Club for more than 16 years, including President 2007-2008. Active with the First Presbyterian Church of Orange for 50 years, he continues to sing in the choir, and has performed twice in Carnegie Hall. He has served on Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian’s corporate APM group for 13 years, including 3 years as moderator.

He has spoken at Michigan Society of Professional Surveyors conventions, historical society groups in Michigan, and service clubs in Southern California. His hobbies include writing, speaking, reading, golf, and savoring time with his granddaughter and family.

Mr. Burt is a charter member of the Surveyors Historical Society, a life member of the Marquette County Historical Society, and is a supporting member of the Historical Society of Michigan.