Richard Elwood Burkhart, Sr.

Mr. Burkhart was born November 8, 1946 in Barberton, Ohio to Delmar and Doris Burkhart.

He proudly served in the United State Marine Corps reaching the rank of E4 Corporal and in both the New Jersey and California Army National Guard, retiring after 23 years at the rank of E7 Staff Sergeant. During his time in the US Marine Corps, he did one tour of duty in the Vietnam War.

Mr. Burkhart enjoyed spending time in his greenhouse where he grew all sorts of vegetables and flowers. He loved driving and showing off his (2) 1930 Ford Model A’s and attending the monthly meetings of the Model A Club of Greater Orlando where he served as Vice President. He was deeply involved with his church, St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church (Apopka, FL) where he served as a Eucharistic Minister. He was a dedicated member of The Knight of Columbus Council #11673/Assembly 2951, where he previously served as Grand Knight and Faithful Navigator (4th Degree). He is a lifetime member of the VFW. He could keep you occupied for hours with detailed stories of his life’s adventures as a retired Marine, a General Contractor, a loving husband, father, brother and friend to many. He served his country, his church and his family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Delmar Merle Burkhart and Doris Loretta (Colvin) Burkhart; brother, Roger Burkhart and sister, Donna Burkhart Orum (James).

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Althea “Renie” Causa Burkhart; son, Richard Elwood Burkhart, Jr. (Connie); daughter, Cynthia Ann Burkhart Naro, (Sam); grandchildren, Shane Allen Young and Daniel Scott Dawson (Peter); brother, Olan Blaine Burkhart (Linda); sister, Karen Jean Burkhart Snair (Rick); sister-in-law, Sharon Burkhart and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

A memorial service will be held at Our Lady of the Hills Catholic Church (Columbia, SC) and at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church (Apopka, FL) at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made in honor of Richard Burkhart to “The Knight of Columbus Council #11673”, St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 834 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Apopka, FL 32703.