Robert Burkhart

Robert (Bob) Burkhart, 51, of Old Forge, died Thursday after an illness while on vacation with his family in Wildwood, N.J. He is survived by his loving wife and best friend, Lisa Straub Burkhart. Having wed on Sept. 14, 1991, the couple celebrated 25 years of marriage.

Born in Scranton on May 31, 1966, Bob was the son of Jay Burkhart and wife, Marlene, of Plains Twp., and the late Joyce Berry Burkhart. A graduate of Riverside High School, class of 1984, he earned his bachelor's degree in business administration from Marywood University. Before becoming ill, he worked as the business manager at Car Temps in Moosic. Of Roman Catholic faith, he was a member of Immaculate Conception Church Parish in Scranton.

An amazing golfer, he would never pass up an opportunity to either play a round or watch the PGA Tour. A sports fanatic, he loved the San Fransisco 49ers and the Philadelphia Phillies, and he followed Old Forge Blue Devil athletics through his children. He had a memorable humor and made every effort to ensure his family's happiness. A remarkable husband and father, he'll be forever missed and loved.

His family wishes to extend its heartfelt appreciation to Drs. Mark Lyons and Roger Getts, as well as all of those who cared for Bob throughout his illness.

Surviving are his three beloved children, Nichole, Cassidy and Jacob Burkhart, all of Old Forge; a brother, Jay Burkhart and wife, Emily, of Mechanicsburg; a stepsister, Jennifer Williams and husband, Thomas, of Kingston; a mother-in-law, Patricia Straub of Scranton; and nieces and nephews.

Sisters, Sheri Lynn Burkhart and an infant Julianne, also preceded him in death.

A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for Friday at 10 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Church, 801 Taylor Ave., Scranton, to be celebrated by the Rev. Joseph Sica. Interment will follow at Cathedral Cemetery. Those wishing to attend the funeral are asked to go directly to the church.

Relatives and friends may pay their respects Thursday between 5 and 7 p.m. at the Thomas P. Kearney Funeral Home Inc., 517 N. Main St., Old Forge.

Please visit the funeral home's website for directions or to leave an online condolence.