Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Bruce Burstert Obituary
October 17, 1958 - August 30, 2022
Lexington, Missouri - Bruce Burstert
b. Oct. 17, 1958, d. Aug. 30, 2022
A memorial service will be held on Sunday, Oct. 16, 2022, at 3:00 p.m. at St. Mary's Episcopal Church, 1307 Holmes, Kansas City, to honor the life and contributions of Bruce Duane Burstert of Lexington, Mo.
Bruce was nationally recognized for his work as an interior decorator, garden designer, artist, musician and AIDS activist. For many years he and his partner, Robert Raymond Smith, owned Smith & Burstert Oriental Rugs & Decorative Arts at 122 Southwest Blvd., Kansas City, one of the first businesses established in the newly-emerging Crossroads District. Together, they created an exquisite home and garden at 3548 Wyoming, featured in many Kansas City garden tours. After Robert passed away from AIDS in 1995, Bruce continued to run Smith & Burstert until 2007. Bruce was a spokesman for the gay community, a mentor to young artists and a passionate proponent of mid-19th century vernacular Missouri architecture and design. He led a life of art.
Bruce was born in Topeka, Kan., to Roy Francis "Buster" and Barbara Jean (Brooks) Burstert. Bruce was reared and educated in Richmond, Mo., and graduated in 1977 from Richmond High School. He studied music at the Conservatory of Music, University of Missouri, Kansas City, and voice with Arnold Epley at William Jewell College. Bruce sang professionally at weddings and funerals. He was also a choir member at Grace & Holy Trinity Cathedral and once sang with Robert Shaw at Carnegie Hall.
The memorial service will include personal remembrances and music sung by members of the Kansas City Chorale, the Scholars of St. Mary's Episcopal Church, conducted by Charles Bruffy and Arnold Epley.
Bruce leaves behind his mother, Barbara Jean Burstert of Richmond; his brother, Brian (Kipper) Burstert of Richmond; his sister, Melanie (Kevin) Schreier of Lexington, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and loving friends.
Bruce's talents were manifold, his life touched many people, young and old. He was a good cook, a tasteful decorator, and a successful painter. He described himself as "self-taught, culturally educated." His life and artistry enriched us all.
A reception will follow the service at 122 Southwest Boulevard, Kansas City, Mo. 64108.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to St. Mary's Church, 1307 Holmes, Kansas City, Mo. 64106.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Bruce Burstert
Sponsored by Kansas City Star.
5 Entries
Marie Bertholet Smith
December 12, 2023
I loved his creative genius.
Dodie Jacobi
March 14, 2023
Bruce crossed my mind this morning, so I googled to check in. I'm sorry to hear this news too late to be part of what I'm sure was a lovely celebration of life service for a memorable and impactful man. I enjoyed the adventure of working with Bruce on his business, attending memorable events large and small in his charming hospitality, and even singing with him on a couple of occasions. I carry from this time many lessons in design, musicality, and his unique use of the word "important" to describe an antiquity's relevance - whether early Missouri tabletop or 16' x 27' rug from Uzbekistan. We were both charmed to learn that my father's Important Suits fit him perfectly, and I loved seeing him about town in these vintage pieces from Kansas City's finest retailers. And so he joins a list of merchants past - those who came before, but few who will likely succeed him. In Bruce's passing, so goes an era of cheek, style, impatience, and loyal friendship to animals and humans. I am lucky to have been among them.
William Bichelmeyer
October 16, 2022
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Charlene Bryan Furr
October 12, 2022
I remember our childhood together and reconnecting on FB. Sure did love him. He sang in my first wedding and had an amazing voice. I will miss his encouragement on FB. Prayers for Barbara, Brian and Melanie
Charlene Bryan Furr
Maire Bertholet Smith
October 10, 2022
Sorry to hear of his passing. He was very talented in many ways. For sure he could be a character. He was good at finding the unusual. He and Robert can be together once again. Peace. Maire Bertholet Smith
Showing 1 - 5 of 5 results
Make a Donation
in Bruce Burstert's name
Memorial Events
for Bruce Burstert
How to support Bruce's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Bruce Burstert's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
