Merrick F. Burkhardt Jr.

BURKHARDT, Merrick F., Jr.

Merrick F. Burkhardt, Jr., age 88, of Milford, formerly of Wilton and Guilford, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2025. Born and raised in Racine, WI, Merrick spent much of his adult life in New York and Connecticut. A hardworking and dedicated individual, he enjoyed a long and successful career in publishing. He began his career at Western Publishing and went on to work at Platt and Munk, Elsevier-Dutton, Grosset & Dunlap, and Great American Book Fairs. He ultimately completed his publishing journey as the General Manager of Scholastic Book Fairs, Inc.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Merrick was a proud U.S. Army veteran who served internationally.

Merrick is survived by his son, Merrick F. Burkhardt III (Damara) of Albuquerque, NM, and his daughter, Amy Dingwall (Scott) of Trumbull, CT. He was affectionately known as Poe-Poe and Pop to his grandchildren: Ryan Dingwall, Amanda Lugo (Aaron), Olivia Burkhardt, and Joel Burkhardt. Merrick is also survived by his sister, brother, and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Justyn (2009), with whom he had a serendipitous meeting at a bus stop on the Upper East Side of NYC in 1963, sparking the beginning of their journey together, as well as his cherished son, Brian (2002), and his brother, Paul (2017).

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to Merrick's live-in caregiver, Ena of Comfort Keepers, for her compassionate care and friendship over the past two and a half years. Together, they shared a love for UConn basketball, making it their favorite pastime.

In accordance with Merrick's wishes, there will be a private service. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to a charity of your choice.