Charles Michael (Mike) Burlingame (66) of Tontitown Arkansas, passed away on November 11, 2023. Mike, known as "Game" to many of his friends, was born on January 22,1957 in Dayton, Ohio to Mary and Billy Joe Burlingame. In 1961, his family relocated to Norman, Oklahoma where he grew up as an active member of the boy scouts. Mike graduated from Norman High where he focused on getting a scholarship for football. Mike was recruited to play center for the Arkansas Razorbacks in 1975. Every game Mike started the team won, with a record of 20-0-1, including the Cotton, Orange, and Fiesta bowl. A bond was built with his teammates that is still strong today; he modeled the phrase "Once a razorback, always a razorback." Mike took root at Southwest Junior High where he taught science for 35 years. Mike found great pleasure in teaching because of the relationships with his students and fellow teachers. He retired at 62 continuing to do the things he loved, which were:  bird hunting, training bird dogs, fishing, trips to Alaska, mentoring, and tinkering around the house. Some of Mike's greatest accomplishments include: being recognized as one of the top bird dog trainers in the state of Arkansas, also building his family home where his wife currently lives. Mike was loved by many, especially his family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary Esther and Billy Joe Burlingame; brother, Billy Joe Burlingame, Jr.

Mike is survived by his wife, Melinn Burlingame, of 41 years; two children, Megan Burlingame and Joe (wife Britta) Burlingame; two brothers, David Burlingame and Keith (wife Arisha) Burlingame; sister, Barbara (wife Nolonda) Burlingame.

Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life for Mike Burlingame on Wednesday, November 15th at 2:00 pm at St. Thomas Episcopal Church, 2898 South 48th St., Springdale, Arkansas 72762. The family wishes to thank Circle of Life Hospice and Highlands Oncology for taking such wonderful care of Mike. Memorial contributions may be made to: The Weber Scholarship Fund C/O Dean Weber 1295 South Razorback Road Fayetteville, AR 72701 or Circle of Life Hospice 901 Jones Rd., Springdale, AR 72762.  Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Heritage Funeral Home (479)751-2444.