Michael Harvey Burkhart, 72, of Darien passed away peacefully on June 21, 2025 at home surrounded by his loving family.
Michael Burkhart, 72, passed away on June 21. His wake will be on Sunday, July 6.
Born Feb. 9, 1953, at Stamford Hospital, Michael was the son of Richard and Barbara Burkhart. He raised in Darien along with his two sisters, Pamela and Linda.
He graduated from Darien High School in 1972, where he met and started dating the love of his life, Prudence Kattelle. He was married to Prue in 1976, and they remained married for 48 years, until her passing in 2024. High school sweethearts, whose love and devotion for each other remained with them always. He would tell you, Prue was the best part of his life, without a doubt.
After high school graduation, Mike followed Prue to Central Connecticut State College, where he majored in English, earning his degree in 1976. Upon graduation he joined his father and started a 31-year career at Ring’s End Lumber in Darien. Working as yard manager in the beginning of his career, eventually becoming a shareholder, vice president of operations, and a member of the board of directors, before retiring in 2007.
Retirement allowed Mike and his family to enjoy many hobbies. He was an avid boater, hunter, and competitive shotgun shooter. Mike and his good friends were long time season ticket holders to his beloved New York Yankees.
Mike and Prue enjoyed many trips to their favorite vacation destination, Bermuda. With family and friends, Mike built a log cabin in upstate New York, his favorite place in the world, where he spent many days and weeks. They spent time at their retirement home near Cooperstown, New York, and Prue’s family cottage on Monhegan Island in Maine.
Mike was a 50-year member and past Chief of the Noroton Fire Department, where he maintained decades long friendships with his brother fireman and their families. He served on the Darien Fire Commission for many years, representing NFD.
Mike was a past president and board member of the Camp Fire Club of America, an outdoors club and conservation organization with over 400 members. Mike was also on the board of directors for Spring Grove Cemetery for many years.
Mike’s greatest joy was his family, spending quality time with his three children, their spouses, and his seven grandchildren. He was the quintessential provider, protector, role model, and anchor of the family.
Mike was predeceased by his wife Prudence and his two parents. He is survived by his three children: Michael R. Burkhart of Darien (Nicole), Daniel Burkhart of Easton, Maryland (Hannah) and Laurie Lambo of Darien (Christopher).
He leaves behind his seven grandchildren: Myra, Brynn, Tyler, Natalie, Isabelle, Georgia, and Danielle, who looked up to him, and lovingly called him Pop. He is also survived by his two sisters, five brothers in law and several nieces and nephews.
Family and friends may pay their respects from 2 to 6 p.m., Sunday, July 6 at Lawrence Funeral Home, 2119 Boston Post Road, Darien. A private family burial service will take place at the family’s cabin at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Michael’s name to The Camp Fire Conservation Fund or The Noroton Fire Department.
— an obituary from Lawrence Funeral Home, where online condolences may be left