James H. Burkhart

James H. Burkhart, 88, of New Holland, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday, November 13, 2014 after a brief illness.

Born in Bowmansville, he was the son of Harry and Suie (Hurst) Burkhart. He was the loving husband of the late Loretta E. (Fox) Burkhart for 61 years. She died June 23, 2009. He later married Elsie (Musser) Bowman Burkhart, Dec. 12, 2009.

James retired in 2006 after 38 years from the former Sperry New Holland and later worked 20 years at Shady Maple Farm Market in East Earl.

He was a lifelong member of Bowmansville Mennonite Church where he served as song leader for many years. He was a member of the Gospel Light singers and also sang with men’s choruses and playing with Bluegrass Gospel bands. He was also a member of the Christian Camplighters camping group.

Among his interests were singing, guitar playing, gospel music, performing for Churches, retirement home and fire halls throughout the area, camping, gardening, and playing games with his family and friends.

Surviving in addition to his wife are six children, Larry E., married to Carol (Brubaker) Burkhart of Quarryville, Joyce E. Nolt Gish, married to John Gish of Mt. Joy, Robert L., married to Brenda (High) Burkhart of Lititz, Kenneth J., married to Pat (Glick) Burkhart of Ephrata, Diane K., married to Ervin Miller of Sarasota, FL, and Doris J., married to Ray Horst of New Holland; 19 grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; two step children, Sharon, married to Gary Larsen of Orlando, FL, and Kenneth D., married to Joanne (Donato) Bowman of Orlando, FL; three step grandchildren; one brother, Wilmer, married to Anna (Snader) Burkhart of Manheim; and a sister-in-law, Ruth (Good) Burkhart of Ephrata.

Preceding him in death are two brothers, John and Warren; and two sisters, Eleanor Good, and Irene Fulmer.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, Nov. 17 at 10 am at Bowmansville Mennonite Church, 129 Pleasant Valley Road, East Earl, PA 17519 with the Reverend Peter Sensenig and the Reverend Jonathan Yoder officiating. Interment will be in the adjoining cemetery. Viewing will be held on Sunday from 6-8 pm and on Monday from 9-10 am at the Church. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Bowmansville Mennonite Church, (address above). To send the family online condolences visit us at www.groffeckenroth.com. Arrangements by Groff-High Funeral Home, New Holland.