Robert Russell Burkhardt

Robert Russell Burkhardt, affectionately known as “Russ” or “Mr. Burkhardt,” passed away peacefully on July 7, 2025, at the age of 77, in Boise, Idaho, after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s. Surrounded by family, prayer, and sweet hymns, Russ was called home into the Lord’s presence, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, kindness, and boundless generosity.

Russ was born November 14, 1947, in Gooding, Idaho, the son of Hoya Maxine and Thomas William Burkhardt and a loving family that included his sister, Donna. Growing up, he cultivated a keen curiosity for all things mechanical, a trait that would follow him throughout his life. Whether fixing engines or mending broken toys, Russ’s hands and heart were always busy caring for others.Russ built a life anchored in faith, family, and community. He married his first wife, Mary Virginia Hiratsuka in Dillingham, and together they welcomed three children: Heidi Melody, David Matthew, and Candy Joy. As a father, Russ poured his talents and time into his family, always striving to create the best life he could for them. He was never happier than when gathered with his family and friends, cooking up legendary breakfast skillets and French toast or telling a story that would have everyone in stitches.  Though his marriage ended, Russ and Virginia maintained a lifetime friendship surrounded by their growing family.  In 1998, Russ met and married for the second time, Patricia Lyons (Burkhardt), who was lovingly by his side when he entered his rest on July 7, 2025. Their marriage, love and devotion to each other was well known and stands as a testament to true love. From the moment they met to the second he parted; they were inseparable and wonderfully in love. Together Russ and Patricia made their home in Boise, Idaho where they were surrounded by friends and frequent visits from their combined family that now included James Jr., Tonya and Walter Jr.. An avid outdoorsman, Russ found true joy hunting, fishing, camping, and wandering beneath the open sky. His heart was forever drawn northward to the wild beauty of Alaska. This all began with a opportunity to travel to Dillingham, Alaska in the Bristol Bay as a VISTA Volunteer.  After years living and serving in Dillingham, Southwestern Alaska, Russ considered the region—and particularly the shores of the Nushagak River at his family’s beloved commercial salmon set net site in Ekuk—his true home. His VHF radio call sign, “RRB” (Double R B), was a familiar, comforting voice across the Alaskan airwaves.Russ’s friends, and including strangers— were drawn to his ever-present humor, his knack for tinkering, and his unwavering generosity. Serving his community was simply part of who he was. Russ dedicated many years as a volunteer and was a pillar in the worship community, first through faithful commitment and leadership in the Alaska Moravian Church and, in his later years, as an active member at St. Paul Baptist Church in Boise where he served as Deacon, Trustee and member of the men’s chorus.

Russ’s education began throughout his Elementary though High School in Gooding, Idaho followed by undergraduate studies at the University of Idaho where he received his BA in education.  In 1985 he received his Master of Science Degree from the Western Oregon College of Education.  He began his professional career in Alaska as a VISTA Volunteer back in the early 1970’s where he worked with the native communities around the Dillingham area, followed by a teaching position with the Southwest Region School District in the Nushagak River community of New Stuyahok, where he stayed over the next seven years before relocating to Dillingham where he directed the school district federal and state education programs until his retirement when he relocated to Boise.  During his years in the Bristol Bay, Russ and his family spent their summers in their Ekuk home where they commercial fished for salmon using their set net site #12 located on the Ekuk Flounder Flat beach.  This site is now being used by a third generation Burkhardt member of his family. 

He is survived by his wife Patricia; his children Heidi (Paul), David, Candy (Ryan), Tonya (Dexter) and Walter (Nadine); sister Donna Jensen of Gooding, Idaho; seventeen grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; a host of nieces and nephews; and many cherished friends and extended family throughout Boise, Bristol Bay and the lower ’48. He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas William and Hoya Maxine Burkhardt.Russ’s humor, generosity, and steadfast love will be dearly missed, but his legacy lives on in those blessed enough to have known him. In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor him by spending time outdoors or helping a friend in need—just as Russ would have done.