Charles Edward Burkarth (Chuck) passed away peacefully at his home on June 5, 2021 with his family by his side.
Chuck was born December 13, 1935 in East St. Louis, IL. He was a graduate of East St. Louis High School class of 1953 and went on to serve three years in the United States Army stationed in El Paso, TX.
After his return to Belleville, while visiting a local bank, he met bank teller Carolyn Louise Kennedy. They fell in love and married in 1963 in East St Louis.
His distinguished career in sales began at Kaemmerlen Electric and continued with Barrett Electric, National Electric and finally Frost Electric where he retired from in 1997. He cherished the lifelong relationships that were created during these times.
Chuck was a longstanding member of St. Matthew United Methodist Church where he loved singing in the Chancel Choir as well as Fortress. He was also a proud member of the Christian Salt and Light Sunday School class.
He was preceded in death by:
- his dear grandparents: George and Blanche Marekiwetz
- mother: Mabel (Orville) Bergman
- father: Henry Burkarth
- sister: Beverly Gedda.
He is survived by:
- his wife of 58 years: Carolyn (Kennedy) Burkarth
- son: Steven (Rachel) Burkarth
- daughter: Teri Gomric
- grandchildren:
- Zac and Zoe Burkarth
- Joseph and Christopher (Gabby) Gomric
- great-granddaughter: Lorelei Gomric
- sister: Barbara (Bob) Louis
- brother-in-laws:
- Bill Gedda
- Dwight Kennedy
- sister-in-laws:
- Peggy Kennedy
- Pat Voss
- Nancy (Tim) Gudinas
- and nieces, nephews, cousins, and many dear friends.
He will forever be remembered as someone who loved to talk to anyone and everyone, never met a stranger, and was a generous soul that went above and beyond for many. No one could have asked for a more wonderful husband, father, grandfather and friend.
We want to extend thanks and gratitude to the caretakers of Hospice of Southern Illinois for taking excellent care of him.
Memorials: may be made to Hospice of Southern Illinois or St. Matthew U.M.C.
Funeral: Private Family Interment at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, MO.
10 Comments To "Charles E. “Chuck” Burkarth"
#1 Comment By Ruthie & Eddie Anglin On June 7, 2021 @ 5:05 pm
Carol, I am so sad to hear Chuck passed away. What a great Godly man he was. I so enjoyed sitting beside him in choir and having fun being his “Rose”. Know we are praying for you and your family. Big hugs and prayers
#2 Comment By Mary Ellen On June 7, 2021 @ 5:38 pm
From Mary Ellen Shultz:
So many fun memories of times Larry and I shared with Chuck and Carolyn over the years. When Steven and Teri came along there were birthday parties and other milestone events AND babysitting Steven and Teri when they were little.
Chuck’s big smile and pleasant conversation will be missed by many.
#3 Comment By Larry Shasteen On June 7, 2021 @ 6:03 pm
Carolyn how we loved Chuck and what he meant to our family, especially our parents. So true about his love fir talking, but always interesting and knowledgeable. You two seemed to be perfectly marched. May the good Lord watch over you and your family as you work through this difficult time
#4 Comment By Rocky n Cindy Cole On June 7, 2021 @ 6:31 pm
We loved Chuck and will cherish our memories of Wednesday night mealtimes.dull.of jokes and laughter, Sunday morning giggles…fun upon fun.
#5 Comment By Angie Mitchell On June 7, 2021 @ 7:11 pm
Chuck touched the lives of so many with his outgoing personality, big heart, sense of humor and love for the Lord. I cherish the many times we laughed and sang together. Wish I had the adequate words to bring peace, comfort and strength to you and your family. My prayers and love are with you all in the days ahead.
#6 Comment By Steve Padgett On June 7, 2021 @ 7:52 pm
Carolyn and family,
My deepest sympathy to you. I share in your grief. Chuck was a dear and true friend. I shall miss our long talks, our brotherly hugs and our fellowship. A fine man has departed. May God comfort you and keep you in this time.
#7 Comment By Robert Souders On June 7, 2021 @ 8:21 pm
Chuck was one of my favorite members of St Matthew Methodist Church and a great friend I’m so sorry to read about his passing. We enjoyed many conversations, trips, worship experiences through the years. He was loved by many people.
#8 Comment By Scott Vedane On June 9, 2021 @ 5:17 pm
Carolyn and family,
My deepest condolences for the loss of “Uncle” Charles. No words can ease the sorrow you are feeling as you grieve. Charles is a special person and always treated me as family! We will all miss him dearly. May you feel the peace of God at hand as you mourn.
#9 Comment By Debbie Conley On June 10, 2021 @ 9:08 am
Carolyn and family,
I enjoyed working with Chuck at Frost. He was very knowledgeable and eager to share his knowledge. I loved his sense of humor and smile. Thinking of you during this difficult time for your family. May the Lord watch over and comfort you.
#10 Comment By Heather Fischer On July 2, 2021 @ 12:06 am
Mr. Chuck, you lit up my world every time I would see you! We all, and especially Aidan, love you and Miss Carolyn so much! He still to this day calls you Uncle Chuck. We so much treasure the time you guys spent making sure Aidan was well taken care of. He loves you so much! As we all do! Miss Carolyn, we are so sorry for your loss and we pray the Lord overwhelms you with peace. Love you! Love, Chris & Heather Fischer and family