IN MEMORIAM

Elmar Burkhardt of Austin, was born on May 15, 1930 in Ellwangen, Germany. He immigrated to the United States after World War II and joined the US Airforce in 1951. He became a naturalized citizen in 1953. He served over 27 years in the U.S. Air Force ending his career as a CMSgt, the highest rank possible for the enlisted. He relocated 18 times over his career and the last 15 years he was an Airborne Electronics Superintendent. His service included tours in Korea, Vietnam, Thailand and Germany. Among his awards were four Meritorious Service Medals and four Air Force Commendation Medals. After retirement from the U.S. Air Force in 1979, he was employed until 1993 by the U.S. Postal Service.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 48 years, Barbara Finley Burkhardt and is survived by his son, Eric Burkhardt and wife Jean Marie of Denver, CO; son, Brian Burkhardt and wife, Tracy of Brentwood, TN; and daughter, Karin Noon and husband, Rick of The Woodlands, TX; his grandchildren are Duncan and Arianna Burkhardt of Brentwood and Kayla Noon of The Woodlands. He is also survived by his brother, Dieter Burkhardt of Wilhelmsdorf, Germany. For the last 10 years he was fortunate enough to have had the love and companionship of Dotty Ahrens. He also greatly enjoyed being “B”, a grandfather to Bo Wieland, son of Carolyn and Greg.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or your charity of choice .