Justin Burnell Kansas City KS Obituary, Death, Car Accident: It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that we mourn the untimely passing of Justin Burnell, a true force in the Kansas City bar and art community. Justin, who was a partner at Drastic Measures, was more than just a talented bartender—he was a visionary, a mentor, and a cherished member of our family. His tragic death, alongside that of his dear friend Simone Mele, leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew him.
Today, we remember and honor the extraordinary life that Justin lived, the legacy he leaves behind, and the impact he made on everyone fortunate enough to cross his path. Justin Burnell was a true innovator in every sense of the word. As a partner at Drastic Measures Cocktail Bar, he brought his passion for hospitality, creativity, and inclusivity to everything he touched. Justin’s impact on the Kansas City bar scene cannot be overstated. His dedication to his craft, his commitment to excellence, and his drive to push boundaries helped elevate Drastic Measures to its status as a beloved institution.
But beyond the success of the bar itself, Justin’s contribution to the local culture was immeasurable. He was a driving force behind the bar’s unique atmosphere—a place where everyone felt welcome, heard, and valued. In every interaction, Justin embodied the essence of hospitality. He wasn’t just interested in serving drinks; he was invested in the experience of everyone who walked through the door. Justin understood that true hospitality is about creating a space where people can feel at home, where they can connect with others, and where they can be their authentic selves.
His warmth, kindness, and generosity of spirit made Drastic Measures more than just a bar; it was a community. It was a place where people didn’t just come for a drink, but where they came for a sense of belonging. Justin made everyone feel like family. His leadership and vision were instrumental in shaping the direction of Drastic Measures. Justin’s commitment to the craft of cocktail-making was evident in every drink he created. He didn’t just follow trends; he set them. His creativity and expertise pushed the boundaries of what was possible in the world of mixology.
His attention to detail, his willingness to experiment, and his ability to make each cocktail an art form were just a few of the qualities that made him stand out in a crowded and competitive industry. Justin was never content with the status quo—he was always looking for ways to innovate, to improve, and to challenge the norms. But beyond his impressive skills behind the bar, Justin was a mentor to those around him. He was always willing to share his knowledge and help others grow, whether they were newcomers to the industry or seasoned professionals.
His generosity extended far beyond the workplace, as he genuinely cared about the well-being and success of those he worked with. Justin’s ability to inspire and nurture talent made him a beloved figure in the Kansas City bar community, and his influence reached far beyond the walls of Drastic Measures. He had a knack for bringing out the best in people and encouraging them to pursue their passions, just as he had done in his own career. Justin’s impact, however, was not confined to just the world of hospitality.
He was also a deeply engaged member of the Kansas City art community, where he used his platform to champion progressivism and creativity. He believed in the power of art to inspire, to challenge, and to connect people. Justin was a passionate advocate for the arts, and he supported local artists and creative endeavors in every way he could. He understood that art, much like hospitality, is about creating connections—about sparking conversations, evoking emotions, and bringing people together. His support for the art community was a reflection of his belief in the power of creativity to make the world a better place.
Justin was also a person who genuinely cared about the world around him. His commitment to progressivism and social justice was evident in the way he lived his life and in the causes he supported. He was someone who believed in the importance of kindness, empathy, and understanding. He was a fierce advocate for those who didn’t have a voice, and he used his influence to raise awareness and promote change. Justin’s advocacy extended to every aspect of his life, whether it was in the bar industry, the arts community, or in his personal relationships. He lived his life with integrity and with a deep sense of purpose.
Though Justin’s life was tragically cut short, the impact he had on his community and those who knew him will never be forgotten. His legacy is one of kindness, creativity, and unwavering dedication to making the world a better place. He taught us all the importance of being kind and caring toward one another, of supporting one another, and of never leaving anything unspoken or unresolved with those we love. These lessons are the gifts he leaves behind, and we will carry them with us for the rest of our lives.
In this time of immense grief, it is important to remember that Justin’s spirit lives on in each of us. The kindness he shared, the passion he instilled, and the lessons he taught are all part of his enduring legacy. While we mourn his loss, we also celebrate his life—the incredible impact he had on everyone he touched, and the love and light he brought into the world. Justin’s legacy is one of connection, creativity, and community, and it is a legacy that will continue to inspire us all.
To Justin’s family, friends, and colleagues, our hearts are with you during this incredibly difficult time. We cannot begin to imagine the pain and sorrow you must be feeling, but we want you to know that you are not alone. Justin’s impact on all of us is immeasurable, and his memory will live on in the stories we share, the lessons he taught, and the way we continue to honor his life. Please know that we are here for you, and we offer our deepest condolences as you navigate this devastating loss.
As we remember Justin Burnell, we also remember the words shared by Drastic Measures: “Be kind and caring towards each other because the world won’t be, and don’t leave anything unspoken or unresolved with the people you care about.” These words, which Justin lived by, remind us to hold our loved ones close, to be present in the moments that matter, and to cherish every opportunity to connect and communicate with those we care about. Justin may no longer be with us physically, but his spirit will continue to guide us as we carry his lessons forward.
