John Franklin Burkhardt, 76, of Kirksville, Missouri, passed away March 4, 2026. John was born on October 2, 1949, in Edina, Missouri. He graduated from Knox County High School and honorably served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. He was united in marriage to Brenda Sharp on November 14, 1975.

John was a hard worker; but he also took time to enjoy his hobbies. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, known for his highly trained bird dogs and his love of the outdoors. Later in life, he took up golfing.

John was preceded in death by his wife, Brenda, and his parents, Sam and Cele Burkhardt. He is survived by his two daughters, Melissa (Ron) Tennyson and Sarah Anderson, three grandchildren, Lacey (Chase) Wilson, Kilynn Anderson, and Henry Anderson, as well as two great grandchildren, Remington Wilson and Colt Wilson.

Family will receive friends at the Wooden Nickel restaurant in Kirksville from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m., Saturday, March 14, 2026, to celebrate and remember John. A private burial will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in honor of John can be made to Hospice of Northeast Missouri or Operation Homefront. Donations may be left at or mailed to Travis-Noe Funeral Home, P.O. Box 306, Kirksville, Missouri 63501.