George Ronald Burkhardt
October 11, 1936 – July 13, 2023
George “Ron” (Ronald) Burkhardt, 86, of Villa Ridge, Missouri passed away on Thursday, July 13, 2023.
Ron is survived by his wife, Jacquelyn Burkhardt; his children, Karen Nalley, Cheryl Burkhardt, Lori Burkhardt, and Brian Burkhardt; five grandchildren: Mark, Kelsey, Molly, Samantha and Bennett; his sister Marilyn Pannemann; as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Ron was born in St. Louis. He grew up in the Creve Coeur and Chesterfield areas. In 1950, his parents moved to a farm in Cuba, Missouri called Ridgetop Farm where he enjoyed riding horses and raising cattle.
He graduated from Cuba HS in 1955. He completed two Bachelor of Science degrees from the University of Missouri, Columbia in 1960, Engineering and Agriculture. He continued at MIZZOU as a graduate student studying soil-water relationships and solar energy balances until May 1962. He was employed by the soil conservation service as an engineer trainee during the summer months of 1957, 1958 and 1959.
Ron met Jacky Schillinger at MIZZOU, and on June 11, 1959 they were married in St. Louis.
In May 1962, Ron and his father began planning a bowling center. By October 1962, they designed, financed, constructed and opened Pacific Lanes bowling center in Pacific, Missouri. He inherited the business in 1973 and was responsible for all aspects of the business operation. In 2003, Ron and Jacky retired after 41 years of a successful business.
In his retirement years, he enjoyed birdwatching (provided many bird feeders in his yard), Jitter-Swing Dances with Jacky and holiday family gatherings.
He was a devoted husband, father and businessman. He will be deeply missed by his family and all who knew him.
Memorials may be made to the Wild Bird Rehabilitation in Overland, Missouri by going to www.wildbirdrehab.org.
Uncle Ron had a beautiful life. I will never forget all the holidays spent at the Burkhardt home. He was very friendly, warm and welcoming. Our families had the best time together as we were growing up. Going to their bowling alley in Pacific brought great joy. I remember playing the pin ball machines, eating the outstanding pizza that they made and just hanging out on the stools at the counter. Uncle Ron knew every person that came to bowl. All the people loved him and Aunt Jacky. He left all of us too soon. God love him and his beautiful family as they move forward and remember all the good times with their father, husband, grandpa and Uncle. Matt and I send our sincere condolences. We love you all.