Darlene Marie Burkhart

Darlene was born on May 25, 1958, to Melvin and Mary Kerr. She grew up in the North Kansas City area and graduated from North Kansas City High School in 1976.

On June 27, 1987, Darlene married the love of her life, William Burkhart. They shared 39 years of marriage, building a life together filled with love, family, laughter, and many wonderful memories.

Darlene spent her career working for Metropolitan Community College. After retiring from MCC, she wasn't quite ready to slow down and went to work at Baldor alongside William, where they worked together until they both retired.

Darlene enjoyed the simple things in life that brought her the most happiness. She loved bowling, spending time at the lake, and, more than anything, being with her family. Her family was truly the center of her world, and there was nothing she treasured more than the time she spent with the people she loved.

Her grandchildren held an especially important place in her heart. They were everything to her, and being their grandma brought her so much joy. Whether it was celebrating the big moments or simply spending time together, the memories they made with her will be cherished forever.

Darlene was preceded in death by her parents, Melvin and Mary Kerr; her sister, Denise White; and her brother-in-law, Jody Shaffer.

She leaves behind her loving husband, William Burkhart; her brother, Dave Kerr and his wife, Nancy; her sister, Debra Shaffer; her sons, Shawn Kerr and his wife, Andrea, and Mark Nichols and his wife, Janessa.

She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren, Brittany Schelor and her husband, Patrick; Alyssa Falter and her husband, James; Mark Nichols Jr. and Ethan; Catherine Kerr; and Shawn Kerr Jr.; as well as her much-loved fur baby, Tucker.

Darlene's family will miss her more than words can express. They will miss her presence at family gatherings, the time spent together at the lake, her laughter, and simply knowing she was there. While saying goodbye is incredibly difficult, they are grateful for the years, memories, and love they were fortunate enough to share with her.

She was deeply loved, and she will be deeply missed.

Relatives and friends are invited to the Funeral Service at White Chapel Funeral Home, 6600 NE Antioch Rd., Gladstone, MO 64119 on Monday, September 28,2026 at 2:00 PM with Visitation from 1:00 PM until service time. Committal Service will immediately follow at White Chapel Cemetery, Gladstone, MO. Please share memories and condolences on the White Chapel Funeral Home website.