Marjorie and Jim Burnett devoted their lives to improving the health and well-being of others. Marjorie’s nursing career began at the Fort Qu’Appelle Sanitarium, where she cared for patients living with tuberculosis. It was there that her deep compassion and commitment to lung health first took root—a commitment that would guide both her and Jim for decades to come.

Jim, after earning his Bachelor and Master of Education degrees from the University of Saskatchewan, dedicated his career to education. He taught in schools across the province, later serving as Superintendent of the Regina Public Elementary System and ultimately as Director of Education. His leadership left such an enduring impact that the Regina Public Schools’ head office now bears his name—a lasting tribute to his vision and devotion to learning. 
But Jim’s influence extended far beyond the classroom. He joined the Lung Saskatchewan Board of Directors in 1981 and went on to serve as Chair of the Public Relations Committee, a long-time member of the Finance Committee, and as Volunteer President from 1988 to 1997. His commitment carried through nationally as well, serving on the Canadian Lung Association Board from 1994 to 2002, including as National Chair. 

Jim was instrumental in founding the Lung Foundation of Saskatchewan in 2002, helping to establish an endowment fund that ensures lung health programs will be sustained for generations to come. His contributions were recognized with the Saskatchewan Volunteer Medal, the Ken More Award for distinguished service, the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, and together with Marjorie, the Canadian Lung Association Lifetime Achievement Award in 2008—celebrating more than 40 years of dedication to lung health. 

Yet Jim would have been the first to share every honour with his beloved Marjorie—his steadfast partner in life and in service. Marj was a quiet but powerful force, volunteering, canvassing, and travelling alongside Jim to countless Board meetings and events across the province. Her warmth, encouragement, and unwavering presence made their impact not just one of leadership, but of true partnership. 
Together, Jim and Marjorie embodied the very spirit of service. Their lives were defined by integrity, kindness, and humility—values that continue to inspire all of us who carry on the work they championed. 

To honour their extraordinary legacy, Lung Saskatchewan and The Lung Foundation of Saskatchewan are proud to establish the Jim and Marjorie Burnett Bursary—a tribute that will ensure their lifelong dedication to education, health, and community continues to inspire future generations. 

Although Jim and Marjorie are no longer with us, their legacy lives on in the lives they’ve touched, in the families they’ve helped, and in the enduring impact they’ve made on lung health in Saskatchewan and beyond.