Robert (Bob) Joseph Burkhart, of Hutchinson, KS, passed away peacefully at his home on May 4, 2025. Bob was born on November 13, 1947, in Spearville, KS, to Elred and Esther (Durler) Burkhart.
Bob grew up on a dairy farm just outside Kinsley, KS, where he later met his wife, Sheryl Eining of Spearville. They were married on August 10, 1968, and soon after began their family. After stops in Dodge City, Kinsley, and Liberal, they eventually settled in Hutchinson, where Bob worked for Betts Baking Company. When the opportunity arose to own a ServiceMaster Clean franchise, Bob and Sheryl took the leap. Together with their sons, they built a successful family-run business, where Bob worked happily for 41 years until his passing.
Outside of work, Bob cherished time with his family—whether hunting, racing, or spending time at Table Rock Lake. Never one to sit idle, he was often seen driving around town in search of a good deal or checking in on customers. His favorite time of year was the Kansas State Fair, where ServiceMaster Clean held the cleaning contract. For over 40 years, Bob could be found there from sunup to sundown, making his rounds on a golf cart. He never met a stranger and never turned down a bowl of ice cream.
Bob was a long-time member of Church of the Holy Cross Catholic Church and faithfully served as an usher and Eucharistic minister. He was also a proud brother Knight of the Knights of Columbus Council 2131, Kinsley chapter.
Bob is survived by his wife of 56 years, Sheryl (Eining) Burkhart; sons Michael (Shelbi) of Hutchinson, Brent (Tammy) of Hutchinson, and Lance (Karen) of Overland Park; five grandchildren – Jake (fiancée Kate), Jhet (fiancée Tori), Peyton, Haley, and Isaac; siblings – Ron (Rhonda) of Kinsley, Mary Schneider of Topeka, Janel (Doug) Burr of Kinsley, Jim (Marilyn) of Goddard, Don (Julie) of Grain Valley, MO, Gerald (Judye) of Washington, OK, and Tom (Suzie) of Mulvane; as well as countless beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Ken.
Bob was a true family man, and his sons and grandchildren were his greatest pride. His quiet strength, generous spirit, and deep devotion to those he loved will be remembered always and missed beyond measure.
Rosary will be 7:00 p.m. Thursday, May 8, 2025, at Elliott Chapel, Hutchinson. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00 a.m. Friday at Church of the Holy Cross, 2631, Independence Road, Hutchinson, with burial to follow in Memorial Park Cemetery, Hutchinson. Friends may call from 1:00 to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday and 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, with the family receiving friends Thursday from 5:30 p.m. until the Rosary begins.