Robert R. Burkhardt, proud veteran, patriot
Robert R. Burkhardt, 91, of Ocean View, formerly of Bowie, Md., went home to the Lord Saturday, June 10, 2023, his 35th wedding anniversary.
Bob was born in Crawfordsville, Ind., Nov. 8, 1931, son of the late Finis R. Burkhardt and the late Pauline Jane (McAnulty) Burkhardt. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Bob retired as an engineering technician for the Federal CommunicationS Commission with 34 years of service.
Bob dabbled in real estate and kept a watchful eye for any investment properties. He was a voracious reader and was always willing to learn about something new. Bob encouraged his children and grandchildren to pursue an education. He loved nature, regularly feeding and watching the birds on White Creek, gardening, boating, and camping. Bob was a wine connoisseur who made his own wine. He had advanced musical talents, pursued a music major in college, and played the piano skillfully. He was a hard worker and a patriot. Above all, he loved his large, blended family and relished the time he spent with them.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, James Burkhardt; a sister, Barbara Wiley; a grandson, Camden Bohager; and the mother of his children, Nadia Burkhardt. Bob is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Mary Lou C. (Steigerwald) Burkhardt; two children, Christina Brentzel (Joe) and Rick Burkhardt (Stacey); and five stepchildren, Lisa Langston, Tom Bohager (Lorie), Mary Hametz (Richard Pultz), David Bohager (Shari) and Michelle Zuromski (Shane). Bob is also survived by 16 grandchildren, Daniel, Nicholas, Noah, Ethan, Max, Kelcie, Sarah, Ashley, Brycen, Justin, Jared, Brandon, Amanda, Alexandra, Jonathan and Emily; and five great-grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Bob’s name to Tunnel to Towers Foundation, t2t.org; or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, stjude.org.
Online condolences may be sent by visiting melsonfuneralservices.com.
