Billy L. Burkhardt, of Sullivan, MO, passed away Monday, February 9, 2015 at the age of 96 years.
Billy was born in Kansas City, MO on January 22, 1919 to the late Fred and Mary (Marquette) Burkhardt. He had made his home in Kansas City until graduating high school when he enlisted at Cheltenham, England in the U.S. Army. He honorably served his country with the 10th Signal Radio Maintenance Team and attained the rank of Tech Sargent. Upon his return after the war, Billy enrolled at what was then known as the Rolla School of Mines and graduated with a degree in Civil Engineering. He was employed thirty-three years at the Sullivan mines and was known to be the second man hired at that site. On December 21, 1947, he was united in marriage to Janet Wood. They made their home in Sullivan after Billy was hired at the mines. He enjoyed volunteering as a member of the Sullivan Hospital Auxiliary and singing the church choir. Billy was a member of the Sullivan Country Club and along with playing golf, enjoyed trout fly fishing and would often tie his own flies. Billy also enjoyed motocross races and his beloved cat Laci Boots. He was a dedicated member of Grace United Methodist Church of Sullivan and was known for his outgoing personality and his ability to do for others before himself.
He is survived by a son, Frank Burkhardt and wife, Tina, of Sullivan, MO and one daughter, Peggy Burkhardt of St. Louis, MO; two grandchildren, William and Heidi Burkhardt; one great-granddaughter, Jersey Burkhardt; nieces and nephews, Sharon Fitzgibbon, Connie Frank, Donna Burkhardt, Fred Burkhardt, Jerry Coleman and Nancy Weeks; other relatives and many friends.
Along with his parents, Billy was preceded in death by his wife Janet; a brother Fred Burkhardt and a sister Bobbi Coleman.
Memorial funeral services were conducted at 11 a.m., Thursday, February 12, 2015 from the Eaton Funeral Home in Sullivan with Pastor Steve Williams officiating. A gathering of family and friends was held from 9:30 until time of service at 11 a.m. on Thursday at the Eaton Funeral Home in Sullivan.
Those who desire may make memorial contributions the Alzheimer’s Association or Grace United Methodist Church of Sullivan.