David H. Burkard DMD

David H. Burkard of Groton Long Point, Connecticut, passed away on August 5, 2025, in Hartford, following a brave battle with cancer. He was 62 years old. Those who knew Dave knew a man of extraordinary character-someone who never complained, never wavered in his faith or devotion to family, and maintained his trademark sense of humor even in life's most challenging moments. His integrity was legendary among friends and colleagues alike; many considered him the most honest person they had ever known. Dave approached life with humility, strength, and an unwavering commitment to what mattered most: his family, his faith, and his community. Born and raised in New Britain, Connecticut, Dave remained a lifelong resident of the state. His devotion to his wife Cindy was the cornerstone of his life-married in 1988 after meeting in dental school, they rarely spent even a night apart during their 37 years together. Dave was a dedicated father to his sons Alex and Dan (and daughter-in-law Michelle), coaching their soccer and baseball teams and supporting them in all their endeavors. His influence extended to their educational paths, with both Alex and Dan following in his footsteps to attend UConn. Dave's circle of friendship ran deep and true. His bond with his best friend Paul Quistberg of Quechee, Vermont, began in kindergarten, sharing classes through their college years at UConn, and they remained friends throughout their lives. Dave cherished his relationships with his brothers Marc (and wife Christina, stepson Cody) and Michael (and wife Kandace Shepherd, children Matthew and Kate). He is also survived by his parents Walter and Carol Burkard. A passionate UConn Huskies fan, Dave's love for "all things UConn" was matched by his dedication to his Groton Long Point community. In mid-life, Dave discovered a love for sailing when he and Rick and Laura Grondin purchased a Fisher's Island One Design together, a quintessential and historic boat from the community at GLP. This was Dave's introduction to sailing and sparked a deep love for it. Most recently he sailed as bowman on the J24 Red Sky, owned by Doug Hope, where he found great joy on the water with his sailing crew. Dave had a deep love for his beloved rescue dogs-Shannon, Abbey and Madison, who predeceased him, and Finn. He was also known for his love of card games, particularly Setback and Poker, which he enjoyed with family and friends. Professionally, Dave was a respected endodontist and partner in Associates in Endodontics for 20 years. He served as past president and member of the Hartford Dental Society and, since 1994, voluntarily taught residents in the UConn Endodontics Program. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Connecticut in 1984, his DMD from UConn School of Dental Medicine in 1988, and completed his endodontic residency in 1992. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the professional teams of the oncology department at St. Francis Hospital for their compassionate care. A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, September 5, 2025, at Carmon Funeral Home, 301 Country Club Road, Avon, Connecticut. Visitation with guests begins at 10:00 AM, followed by the celebration at 11:00 AM. Following the service, the family will host a private gathering. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the UConn School of Dental Medicine scholarship fund or to Friends of the Randolph Animal Pound. Condolences may be sent to the family at 77 Atlantic Avenue, Groton Long Point, CT. Dave's legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched through his kindness, integrity, and unwavering faith. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know him.