Bishop Joseph A. Burkart II, age 85, passed peacefully on December 3, 2025 at St. Joseph Medical Center in Kansas City, Missouri. Born on September 26, 1940 in Johnson City, Tennessee, Joe was the beloved son of Robert H. Burkart and Helen Hanes Burkart, both of whom preceded him in death.

Joe grew up in Wheaton, Maryland where he graduated from Wheaton High School in 1958 before moving to Stillwater, Oklahoma to attend Oklahoma State University. In 1962, he completed his degree in agricultural economics and proudly served in the Air Force ROTC, earning his commission as a Second Lieutenant. After graduating, Joe served his country as an Air Force pilot during the Vietnam War, where he attained the rank of Captain. Following his military service, he earned his MBA from Wake Forest University. In 1961, Joe married the love of his life, Annette Dollins Burkart. Throughout their military years, they were blessed with two children, Lisa and David, who remained the greatest joys of Joe's life. After his military service ended, Joe flew for American Airlines. He then worked at Wachovia Bank in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, where he served as Vice President of the Trust Department. During that time, Joe felt a powerful calling to ministry and accepted a full-time appointment with the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. This calling brought his family to Missouri, where he faithfully served as Bishop of Saint Louis Stake. Both before and after his appointment, Bishop Burkart dedicated over 50 years to pastoral ministry, touching countless lives with his compassion, warmth, and unwavering faith. Joe also served for many years on the board of Center Place Restoration School in Independence, Missouri-a reflection of his lifelong dedication to service, education, and spiritual guidance.

Joe is survived by his devoted wife, Annette, along with their two children: Lisa Burkart-Fox and her husband, Ed Fox; and David Burkart MD and his wife, Tiffany Burkart. Joe's legacy continues through his four cherished grandchildren: Marc Eastin MD and his wife, Marcella; Hannah Fox-LeTourneau and her husband, Captain Nick LeTourneau; Joseph A. Burkart, Esq.; and Samuel D. Burkart. He is also survived by his sisters, Michelle Burkart and Robin Burkart-Peeples, and her husband, Joe Peeples. Joe was preceded in death by his sister, Hanes Burkart. He leaves behind several nieces and nephews who adored him.

Joe lived a life defined by service, humility, and steadfast love. His gentle spirit, wise counsel, and unwavering devotion to his faith and family will forever be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A memorial service honoring Joe's life will be held at Grain Valley Restoration Branch, 32811 East Truman Road, Grain Valley, Missouri 64029, on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2025, at 1:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Center Place Restoration School, 819 W. Waldo Avenue, Independence, Missouri 64050, or to the Wounded Warrior Project.

Obituary submitted by family

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