Donald J. Burkhardt, D.D.S.

In loving memory of Donald John Burkhardt Donald John Burkhardt, a devoted husband, loving father, and proud grandfather, passed away on January 23, 2024, just before celebrating his 80th birthday. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Mary “Bernadette” Burkhardt (nee Faubert), their children Don (and his wife Heidi, of Okemos, MI) and Susan (and husband, Brad Airing, of New York) and his sister Ellen, a Dominican nun and his four grandchildren, Katie, Will, Sarah and Jacob. He was predeceased by his three elder siblings, William, Paul and JoAnn. A devout Catholic, Don's educational journey was a testament to his commitment to learning and faith. Starting at St. Mary’s Catholic Elementary School in New Baltimore, he later ventured to Framingham, Massachusetts, attending the Marist Junior Seminary for high school, fostering a deep connection with God that shaped his values throughout his life. Upon completing high school, he returned to Michigan for undergraduate studies at the University of Detroit. His academic journey culminated in earning a DDS in Dentistry from the University of Detroit, laying the foundation for his distinguished career as a dentist in his hometown of New Baltimore. Don was a beloved small-town dentist who left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew him. Don's dental practice, Anchor Bay Dental Associates, became a cornerstone of the community, thriving under his leadership alongside friends and partners Joe Powers and Raymond McCracken. Patients adored him for his sense of humor, compassionate care and generosity. Don's tireless work ethic was truly remarkable and extended beyond his professional endeavors. Even on Christmas Day, a time for rest, he could be found diligently raking the beach - apparently all the other chores had been done. His dedication to hard work went beyond necessity – it reflected his commitment to excellence and a desire to make the most of every moment. Don's legacy is not just in his professional achievements but in the love, kindness, and faith he shared with family, friends, and the communities he served. His children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and in-laws adored him, and his impact will be felt for generations to come. Don was an avid outdoorsman. He found joy in gardening, waterskiing, boating on Walloon Lake, and snowshoeing in Petoskey. His love for family was evident in the cherished moments spent skiing, boating, and fishing with his children and grandchildren. Retirement allowed him to pursue passions like bridge at the Petoskey Bridge Club, an activity he enjoyed participating in with his beloved Bernadette, as well as community service, including volunteering at the local food pantry. Naples, Florida, provided respite from winter, but his heart remained in Petoskey, surrounded by the beauty of sunsets over the lake and lush vegetation. Don was a lifelong teacher, imparting wisdom through example. Whether it was involving kids and grandkids in chores like waxing boats or painting decks, he instilled the value of hard work and the knowledge of necessary life skills. His love for sharing knowledge was evident in his habit of underlining important passages in books and passing them on to those he believed would benefit. Don recognized the wealth of knowledge he possessed and, with a generous spirit, aimed to ensure that his wisdom would continue to benefit and inspire future generations. Don's legacy extends through his son Don, a dentist (orthodontist) like his dad in Okemos, Michigan, and his daughter Susan, a dedicated lawyer in New York. His love, influence and guidance will forever be cherished by his four grandchildren: Katie, William, Sarah, and Jacob Burkhardt. In a heartwarming moment of joy, Don had the privilege of witnessing his daughter Susan unite in marriage with Brad, the love of her life, this past October. Dapper in his tuxedo, Don, alongside his wife Bernadette, proudly walked Susan down the aisle, creating a cherished memory of love and family before his passing. Friends may visit with the family from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. prior to a memorial mass for Don at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday – February 3, 2024 at St. Martha’s Catholic Church – 1100 West Grand River Avenue, Okemos, Michigan 48864. All are welcome at a luncheon reception which immediately follows mass. Memorials in Don's memory may be made to the "Brother Dan’s Food Pantry" c/o St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, 415 State Street, Petoskey, Michigan 49770 (231) 347-7423; or, The Mackinac Center for Public Policy, 140 West Main Street, Midland, Michigan 48640 P.O. Box 568 (989) 631-0900 (mcpp@mackinac.org). A man of wisdom, kindness, generosity and unwavering love, Don touched the lives of those around him. His memory will live on in the hearts of family and friends, a testament to a life well-lived. The Mass for Donald will be live streamed. Please use this link to watch the Mass. https://st-martha.org/watch-mass

Donald J. Burkhardt, D.D.S.

February 15, 1944 - January 23, 2024