Duane M. Burkhart's Obituary
Mr. Duane Milford Burkhart, age 90, life-long resident of Grand Haven, went to be with his Lord on Saturday, January 3, 2026. He was born in Grand Haven on October 2, 1935 to Raymond and Emma (Bierman) Burkhart. Duane graduated from Grand Haven High School and served six years in the United States Navy Reserves. He later retired from the United States Post Office. Duane was a long-time member of First Reformed Church where he sang in the choir for 30 years. Throughout his life, Duane had many interests, but the two that remained most important to him were his faith and his family. On September 30, 1955, Duane married the former Gloria Ruth Meyers and they enjoyed 70 years of marriage. Gloria survives him along with their children, Sheryll and Kurt Myers and Karen and Jim Moore; grandchildren, Scott and Alayna Norris, Jessica and Aaron Urbanawiz, Jeremy and Dawn Burkhart, Alex and Jennifer Moore, Sam and Courtney Norris, and Mitchell Norris; and nine great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and great-granddaughter, Peyton Burkhart. A private family graveside service will be held at Grand Haven Historic Cemetery. A brief public MEMORIAL SERVICE will be held at 1PM Saturday, January 10, 2026 with an OPEN HOUSE held immediately following until 3PM at First Reformed Church, 301 Washington Ave., Grand Haven, MI 49417. MEMORIALS in memory of Duane may be directed to First Reformed Church. Arrangements by The VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 620 Washington Ave., Grand Haven, MI 49417. You may sign his online guestbook at https://www.sytsemafh.com
What’s your fondest memory of Duane?
What’s a lesson you learned from Duane?
Share a story where Duane's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Duane you’ll never forget.
How did Duane make you smile?
