Michael Jerry Burkhardt, 76, of Columbia, KY passed away peacefully at his residence on Sunday, June 14, 2026. He was born on September 24, 1949 in Springfield, Ohio, a son of the late Herman Hans and Avanell Runyan Burkhardt.
Michael lived a life marked by devotion to his family and a passion for the outdoors. He was known as an avid trap shooter, whose enthusiasm for the sport was matched only by his love for woodworking, hunting, and fishing. Michael took great joy in handcrafting his own fishing lures and had a meticulous interest in reloading ammunition. Alongside these hobbies, he cherished spending quality time with his family and friends, creating memories particularly treasured during his gambling trips with his beloved wife, Rebecca.
SURVIVORS:
His devoted wife: Rebecca Benson Burkhardt of Columbia, KY
2 children: Aaron Burkhardt (& wife Deana) of Russell Springs, KY and Tammy Standley (& husband Rodney) of Bellefontaine, OH
3 grandchildren: Cody Burkhardt (& wife Bri), Lane Burkhardt (& wife Bekah), and Taylor McCafferty
3 great-grandchildren: Jax, Lettie, and Callie Burkhardt
Local Visitation: Wednesday, June 17, 2026 from 4:00pm-6:00pmCT at Stotts-Phelps-McQueary Funeral Home in Columbia, KY
2nd Visitation: Friday, June 19, 2026 from 10:30am-12:00pmET at Skillman, McDonald & Vernon Funeral Home, 257 W Main St., Mechanicsburg, Ohio
Graveside Service: Friday, June 19, 2026 at 1:00pmET at Ferncliff Cemetery, 501 West McCreight Avenue, Springfield, Ohio
Stotts-Phelps-McQueary Funeral Home is in charge of local arrangements.
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