Patricia Burkhardt

Patricia Burkhardt, age 60, went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, February 5, 2013 with her family at her side. She was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer early in December 2012. She fought a challenging, honorable battle, but the cancer attacked aggressively and spread quickly. Her spirit remained ever strong and her faith never diminished.

Born at Ft. Sill, Oklahoma into a military family, Patricia acquired a passion for traveling and a love for working with people. Her family eventually settled in Rockdale, Texas where she attended high school. In December, 1973, Patricia graduated with honors from Southwest Texas State University with a B.A. in English/Speech. She shared her love of learning and knowledge for 25 years as a dedicated teacher for East Central ISD; 9 years as a high school honors English and speech teacher and 16 as a fourth-grade teacher, with time off in between to raise her two children. Patricia was highly admired in the teaching community and was recognized with awards such as East Central High School English Teacher of the Year, Texas Exes Award for Outstanding Elementary Teacher of the Year, ECISD Elementary Teacher of the Year, and Region 20 Elementary Teacher of the Year.

Patricia found joy in traveling, nature, animals and spending time with her family. A country girl with a true appreciation for dogs as companions, it was rare to find her without one by her side. Family vacations were spent traveling across the United States, and she embarked on numerous overseas trips with her husband. A loving wife and mother, she will be forever cherished and honored by her family. Her kindness, wisdom and positivity will always be remembered by those she knew.

Patricia is preceded in death by her parents, Annie and Gus Backhaus, III. She is survived by her beloved spouse of 38 years, Gary Burkhardt; their children, Lori Burkhardt, Chad Burkhardt and his fianc Stephanie Warncke; her brother, Robert Backhaus; aunt, Peggy Cook; cousins, Jim Cook and Linda Dalmas; and her three loving dogs.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the San Antonio Humane Society (www.sahumane.org) or the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (www.pancan.org).