Michael C. Burkhard

Michael "Mike" Charles Burkhard, affectionately known as "Burkey" to family, friends, and customers alike, and lovingly called "Grumpy Gramps" by his grandson, passed away peacefully in the comfort of his hoe on July 11, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was 72 years old. Born on January 17, 1954, in Detroit to the late Harley and Angeline Burkhard, Mike graduated from Bad Axe High School in 1972. He began working alongside his father in the family business, Burkhard Plumbing & Heating, in 1975, and earned his Master Plumber and Mechanical Licenses. In 1992, he and his sister, Cindy Maurer, took over the family business, leading it until his retirement in 2019. He devoted more than four decades to the trade and serving his community with honesty, hard work, and skill. Outside of work, Mike enjoyed hunting and fishing throughout his life. In recent years, he especially cherished goose hunting with his nephew, Luke Duggan, and yearly fishing trips to Canada with dear friends. Whether he was in the outdoors or visiting with friends over a cold beer, he was happiest surrounded by the people he loved. One of his greatest joys was driving around town in his golf cart with his grandson by his side, creating memories that will be treasured forever. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Karen Burkhard, his children: Eric Burkhard and Tami (Randy) Gallgher; his beloved grandson, Finn Gallagher, his sisters: Cindy (Clem) Maurer, Brenda (Terry) Kennedy, Pamela Rivard, Deborah (significant other Tom) Rogers, and Darlene (Joe) candela; his brother Tom (Laura) Burkhard; his sister-in-law: Kathy Burkhard, brothers-in-law: Dave (Debbie) Jaworski and Mike (Debbie) Jaworski, sisters-in-law: Sandy (Nick) Jaworski and Renee Kretz; and several nieces, nephews, extended family members and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Brian Burkhard, his brother: Harley Burkhard; his sister: Patricia Burkhard, his mother-in-law. Phyllis Jaworski, his father-in-law, Mike Jaworski, brothers-in-law, Larry Rivard, Jim Rogers, Steven Kretz, and Fred Duggan; and nephews Jason Maurer and Steven Jaworski. Mike's legacy will not be measured by the pipes he repaired or the business he built, but by the lives he touched through his kindness, quiet generosity, unwavering work ethic, and unconditional love for his family. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Our family would like to express our deepest gratitude to Matt Klosowski for the unwavering support you have given us. Your willingness to always step in, lend a helping hand, and simply be there will never be forgotten. We are forever grateful for all you have done. Funeral Service for Mike will be on Wednesday, July 15, 2026 at 11:30 am at the Ubly Foxhunter's Club. Visitation for Mike will be on Tuesday, at the Ubly Foxhunter's Club, from 4-8pm, and on Wednesday, beginning at 10 am until time of services at 11:30 am. Burial will take place at Sacred Heart Church Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the Family Discretionary Fund. Arrangements are being handled by the Ramsey Funeral Home of Harbor Beach. Memories can be shared at www.RamseyFH.com

Michael C. Burkhard

January 17, 1954 - July 11, 2026