In Memory

Donald Harry Burkhardt - Class Of 1957

Donald Harry Burkhardt   January 2l,1939 – November 6, 2016

Beloved husband, father and grandfather, Donald Harry Burkhardt passed away peacefully in his sleep Nov. 6, 2016 and went to meet his maker whom he faithfully served his entire life.

Born January 27, 1939 to Harry and Hilda Burkhardt he was a lifelong Vale resident, farmer, and rancher. Prior to retirement he was also a custodial supervisor for the Vale School District for 12 years.

In his earlier years Don attended Vale Schools and graduated from Vale High in 1957. He further attended the College of Idaho and then graduated from Oregon State University with a degree in Animal Science before retuning to the farm for the remainder of his life. Don also did his patriot duty with the Air National Guard.  In 1966 Don married the love of his life Charlene Boles and they were proud to have recently reached their 50th anniversary. They had one son, Jeffrey (Diana) and two loving grandchildren, Derek (fiancé Megan) and Alisa; Don is also survived by his sister Lois (Jim) Huffman of Ontario.

Don was a highly active member of the Ontario Pilgrim Lutheran Church.   A deeply religious man who was past President of the congregation as well as past and present elder for many years.  He further served on the Board of the Vale Rural Fire Department and Vale School Board for many years.

Don was a deep supporter of both 4H and FFA, which encouraged his son and grandchildren to do the same. He was very proud of their accomplishments and those of all future farmers. He will be very much missed by his family and community.

Services pending with Shaffer-Jensen of Payette.  Memorials can be made in his name to the Ontario Pilgrim Lutheran Church of the MFCU for improvements to the Malheur County Fair benefiting the 4H & FFA youth program.