Harry Karl Burkard

1937 - 2025

Harry Karl Burkard, Jr., 87, of Wapakoneta, Ohio, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, January 12, 2025.  

Harry was born on May 27, 1937, in Sidney, Ohio, to Harry Karl Burkard, Sr. and Nellie Grant Spaulding Burkard. He graduated from Wapakoneta High School in 1955 and attended Miami University for a short time afterward. On July 14, 1957, he married the love of his life, Betty Joalyce Tangeman Burkard, with whom he shared a devoted and joyful partnership spanning over six decades.  

Harry dedicated 42 years to his career as a Nationwide Insurance Agent, serving his community with professionalism and care. He was an active member of Salem United Methodist Church and a committed participant in the Lions Club of Wapakoneta, contributing his time and energy to causes close to his heart. During his years of service, Harry held every office position in the club, serving as president for the 2000-01 year and receiving the Lion of the Year award for 1997-98.

A lover of nature, Harry found great joy in hunting and fishing with family and friends. At home, he tended to his vegetable and flower gardens with pride and passion. He enjoyed yearly trips to Florida during the winter months and summers at the family cottage in Reading, Michigan, where he forged lifelong friendships and created countless memories.

Harry was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Marjorie Burkard Kachelries, as well as his brother and sister-in-law, Robert and Dorothy Dicke. He is survived by his wife Betty; their children: Bradley Jay Burkard (Jill) of Wapakoneta, Brenda Jane Halker of Wapakoneta, Harry Bruce Burkard (Sherri) in Michigan, Mary Vorhees (Michael) of Wapakoneta, Beth Alyce Knoch (Eric) of Loveland, Brian John Burkard (Stacie) of New Bremen, and Barbara Ann Burkard of Wapakoneta; as well as thirteen grandchildren and twenty great-grandchildren who brought him immense pride and joy.  

Visitation will be held at Salem United Methodist Church, Wapakoneta from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., Friday, January 17. Harry's funeral service will begin at 12:00 p.m., Friday, with Pastor Phill Jarrells officiating. Lunch will follow in the fellowship hall. In lieu of flowers, donations to Grand Lake Hospice are appreciated. Arrangements are under the direction of the Eley Funeral Home & Crematory, Wapakoneta, where condolences may be expressed at www.eleyfuneralhomeandcrematory.com.

Harry's legacy of love, honesty, and dedication will live on. May his memory bring comfort to his family and all who loved him.