Rodger John Burkhardt

Rodger was born in 1927 in San Antonio, Texas to Alvina and Paul Burkhardt.

After enlisting in the United States Navy in February 1945, he served on the USS Pine Island (AV-12), a seaplane tender, and was part of air-sea rescue operations during the final phases of World War II. After the war had ended, the crew contributed to seaplane flight operations in Tokyo Bay, and later, seaplane flight operations in the Whangpoo River near Shanghai, China.

After his time in the Navy, Rodger returned to San Antonio and began a long career as a mechanic with the Lone Star Brewing Company. While employed with the brewery, he also began working on family and neighbors’ vehicles at home after work, in the large backyard shop he had built. He retired from Lone Star after 38 years of dedicated service in 1992, but continued working on his family, friends’ and customers’ vehicles for years to come.

Rodger was proud of the work he did, whether it be at the brewery, in his “shade-tree” mechanic business he ran from his home, or around the small six-acre horse farm that he dubbed “The Ranch”, which his wife Connie and daughter Chandra operated. Able to build or repair just about anything, he often worked long hours and had many satisfied and returning customers and friends who appreciated his honesty, integrity, and frank opinions.

Rodger is preceded in death by his parents; his two sisters, Ruth Garcia and Evelyn Brauchle; and his loving daughter Chandra Burkhardt.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Connie Burkhardt; his son Richard L. Burkhardt, wife Susie and granddaughter Kelli, and many other extended family members. Rodger also had a special place in his heart for his nephews; Ken, Randy, and Russell Garcia.

Rodger’s wit, candor, and determination are just a few of the qualities that defined him, but his love and selflessness for his family and friends are what made him the man he was.

We will miss him dearly.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Chandra Burkhardt San Antonio Fire Department Memorial Scholarship Fund which Rodger and Connie oversee each year.