Charles W. Burkhardt

Charles W. Burkhardt, 82, of Palmyra, MO, passed away at 8:12 PM, Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at his home in Palmyra, MO. Funeral Services with full military honors performed by Boots-Dickson Post #174 of the American Legion will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, November 8, 2025, at the Lewis Brothers Funeral Chapel in Palmyra, MO. Pastor Mark Carpenter will officiate. Friends and Family are invited to Charles's Life Celebration at a visitation that will be held from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, Saturday, November 8, 2025, at the Lewis Brothers Funeral Chapel in Palmyra, MO. Arrangements are under the direction of the Lewis Brothers Funeral Chapel in Palmyra, MO. Charles was born August 20, 1943, in Hannibal, MO, to Theodore Burkhardt and Katherine Skinner Burkhardt. He married Barbara Kaufmann Burkhardt on June 18, 1973, in Payson, IL. She survives. Other survivors include his children, Lee Jay Jordan of West Plains, MO, David (Lynne) Burkhardt of Goodman, MO, Yvonne (Paul) Goellner of Palmyra, MO, Todd Burkhardt of Brunswick, ME, Alison Burkhardt of Palmyra, MO, 18 grandchildren,10 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Elizabeth (Ronnie) Coons and infant son. Charles was a proud US Army Veteran. Charles was known for his tenure in the shipping department and as a Foreman at Moorman/ADM, a chapter in his life that showcased his diligent work ethic and leadership abilities. Charles's expertise extended into the precise craft of gunsmithing. He was always eager to impart wisdom on gun safety, ensuring that his loved ones not only enjoyed shooting sports but respected the responsibilities that came with them. His care for others was woven into the fabric of his being, often seen as he regularly checked in with family and friends, maintaining strong bonds and a warm, supportive presence in their lives. What truly fueled Charles's spirit were his varied interests and hobbies. A voracious reader, he delved into the intricate details of civil war history, handloading techniques, and the latest shooting times magazines. His adventurous spirit found him traveling to the Grand Canyon and Hawaii, adding memories to his well-lived journey. His pursuits were not only of intellect and leisure; Charles was also an avid hunter, respecting nature's bounty, tracking bear in Canada, and on the trails for buffalo, elk, and antelope as well as prairie dogs and deer. In quiet moments, Charles could be found sifting through the earth to add to his arrowhead collection, or eating at the Rebel Pig, where chicken day was his favorite. He was an avid Kansas City Chiefs and Alabama fan. He enjoyed Mustangs and attending car shows. Charles proudly delivered meals on wheels, demonstrating his kindness and commitment to those in need. A member of the National Rifle Association and the Veterans of Foreign Wars, he embodied a spirit of camaraderie and steadfastness honed during his time as an Army Veteran. He enjoyed the sounds of Elvis and the twang of country music soundtracking his days and the black-and-white clarity of old western movies, such as Gunsmoke and those featuring John Wayne. Charles lived a life rich with purpose and passion, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, caring for others, and a profound love for his grandchildren. He will be remembered not only for the lively conversations he sparked but also for the quiet integrity with which he walked through life. His memory lives on as a beacon for all who admired his strength, his warmth, and his unwavering spirit. Charles was baptized in faith. Honorary pallbearers will be Brandon Goellner, Emily Goellner, Joey Burkhardt, Jack Curtis, JC Curtis and all of Charles' friends at the Rebel Pig. Memorials can be made to the Palmyra Nutrition Center for Veteran Meals or the VFW. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Charles, please visit our Tree Store.