Douglas A. Burkhardt

Douglas A. Burkhardt, 79, of Strasburg, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 9, 2026, at the Hennis Care Centre in Bolivar.

Born February 7, 1947, in Cleveland, he was the son of the late Herbert Markowitz and Charlotte Hoover Burkhardt. He was also preceded in death by his stepfather, Karl Burkhardt; sisters, Janice Mayfield and Charlene Bean; and brother-in-law, Patrick Lally.

A 1964 graduate of Wickliffe High School, Doug answered the call of duty by joining the United States Air Force in 1965. He proudly served until 1969 with the Strategic Air Command. Following his military service, he pursued higher education with determination, earning his bachelor’s degree from Kent State University in 1972, a master’s degree in 1974, and a Ph.D. in philosophy and education in 1981, all from Kent State University. He was a valued member of Phi Delta Kappa during his time there. Doug dedicated his professional life to serving others as superintendent for the boards of developmental disabilities in Ashtabula, Mahoning, Tuscarawas, and Trumbull counties. After 42 years of compassionate leadership and advocacy, he retired in 2012, leaving a lasting legacy of care and support for those he served.

Faith played a central role in Doug’s life. As an active and devoted member of the First Baptist Church in New Philadelphia, he served two terms as a deacon and contributed his talents with the budget committee. He found purpose in mission work, including leading a trip to Ukraine in 2005, and held a special place in his heart for the young people of the community, mentoring many young adults with quiet wisdom and encouragement. He was also an avid reader and loyal fan of Ohio State Buckeye football.

He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Kathleen Lally Burkhardt, whom he married on July 23, 1994; his children, Matthew Jaskela of Arizona, Megan (Sean) Elder of North Carolina, and Mackenzie (Fotis) Burkhardt of the United Kingdom; his sister, Karla (Minor) Wilson of Kentucky; grandchildren Malachi, Ezekiel, and Irie Elder; brother-in-law, Richard Lally; sisters-in-law, Martha Hurtuk, Miriam (Charles) Holden, Anne Lally; and nine nieces and nephews.

Cremation has been entrusted to the Toland-Herzig Funeral Home and Crematory in Strasburg. A service celebrating Doug’s life will be held on Wednesday, October 14, at 11:00 a.m. at the First Baptist Church in New Philadelphia, with Troy Stogsdill officiating. The family will greet friends at the church from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Hennis Care Centre in Bolivar for the wonderful care and kindness shown to Doug.