ULYSSES – Gary Burkhart, 86, died Tuesday, May 13, 2025 at his home in Ulysses.
He was born Aug. 3, 1938 to George and Ethel (Francis) Burkhart.
He married Bonnie Jean Slifer Aug. 14, 1966 in El Dorado. She preceded him in death in 2021.
He grew up in Augusta where he graduated high school. He furthered his education at Wichita State University, Missouri State and received his master’s degree in School Administration and Psychology from Emporia State University.
He touched many lives as a Ulysses High School teacher, assistant principal, principal, and school psychologist. He also drove the school activity bus and served as a coach.
He retired as Director of High Plains Educational Cooperative in 1999. Not one to sit around, he then drove a milk truck for Western Dairy Transport.
He owned a Harley Davidson motorcycle and enjoyed riding as much as he could.
Survivors include three sons: Darren Burkhart and wife, Lisa, Bakersfield, Calif., Dustin Burkhart and wife, Katie, El Dorado, and Cory Burkhart and wife, Kourtney, Goddard; sister, Kolene Luper, Augusta; nine grandchildren: Noah, Evan, Sadie, Sophia, Sarah, Hope, Medaris, Kerigan, and Lainie; and seven great-grandchildren: Karter, Kendall, Kymbre, Chandler, Adria, Ezra and Cleo.
He was also preceded in death by his parents.
• Funeral services took place Monday, May 19, 2025 at Garnand Funeral Home, with Mike Anderson presiding.
Graveside services will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, May 21, 2025 at the Marion Cemetery in Marion.
Memorials are suggested to Caterpillars and Butterflies at Ulysses Church of Christ in care of Garnand Funeral Home, 405 W. Grant Ave., Ulysses, KS 67880.
Condolences may be left at www.garnandfuneralhomes.com.
