Burkhart, Richard 'Dick' Leroy

Richard “Dick” Leroy Burkhart, 77, of Cedar Rapids, died Monday, Aug. 13, 2012, peacefully in his home after a brief battle with cancer. Visitation will be from 1 to 3 p.m. Friday, Aug. 17, at Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home. A private ceremony will be held later for immediate family.

Dick was born Sept. 26, 1934, to Bernard and Polly Burkhart. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps and worked for 42 years, first as a switchman, then Yard Master for The Union Pacific Railroad. He married Myrl C. Geisheker on June 27, 1959, in Dubuque; they later divorced but remained caring friends.

Survivors include Myrl Watt of Round Rock, Texas; three sons, Bret (Valerie) Burkhart of Austin, Texas, Chuck Burkhart and Scott (Michelle) Burkhart, both of Cedar Rapids; six grandchildren; his sister, Glady Arlt; aunts, uncles, cousins and nieces.

He was loved greatly and will be forever missed.

Memorials may be made to American Cancer Society, 4080 First Ave. NE, Suite 101, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402.

Published Aug. 16, 2012 in The Gazette