Robert W. Burkhart

Robert Weller Burkhart, 90, of Bayville, passed away on December 8, 2014 at home surrounded by his loving family. Born in Palmerton, PA, he graduated from Lansford High School in 1942, he then went on to attend Penn State University where he earned a BS degree in Aeronautical Engineering in 1949. He lived in Toms River before moving to Bayville in 1979. Robert was an Engineer Program Manager for Naval Air Station Lakehurst for 28 years, honorably retiring in 1982. Robert was recognized by the American Society for Mechanical Engineers for his contributions to design engineering excellence. He was instrumental in the development of applications for innovative materials such as kevlar and corrosion resistant coatings used by the Navy for use on aircraft carriers and catapults. He proudly served in the U.S. Navy during WW II. Robert was a member of the Naval Civilian Manager Association, Lakehurst Chapter; Life member of VFW Post 9503 in Bayville; past president of the N.A.E.C and a former member of the American Legion Post in West Chester, PA.

Bob was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He loved to be outdoors fishing, crabbing, clamming and working in his abundant vegetable gardens where he grew the best tomatoes. He loved Betty's cooking, especially her shrimp and ham soup, his desert every day, his favorite was rum raisin ice cream, and sports, particularly football and his alma mater Penn State. He was passionate about engineering and problem solving, working for the Navy at NAEC to develop new materials, being an Eagle Scout as a boy, and respecting nature and being a steward to wildlife and the environment. Bob always worked hard and was proud of his engineering accomplishments and leadership. He was kind, honest and fair, and a very loyal friend.

He was predeceased by his parents Paul and Florence Burkhart; and his sisters Jean Howd and Charlotte Frace. Surviving are his devoted wife of 40 years Betty Jean (French) Burkhart; three children, Susan Lattanzio of Novato, CA, Cheryl Harrell of Oriental, NC and Robert G. Burkhart of Orlando, FL; his brother Paul L. Burkhart Jr.; five grandchildren Heather Harrell, Ashley Harrell, Austin Harrell, Laurel Lattanzio and Rocco Luke Weller Lattanzio.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, December 14, 2014 from 2-4 and 7-9 pm at Anderson and Campbell Funeral Home, 703 Main Street, Toms River. Funeral services will be held on Monday at 10:30 am at Anderson and Campbell Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Riverside Cemetery in Toms River. Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to the Shriners Hospital for Children in honor of Robert W. Burkhart, Bayville NJ.