Marilyn J. Burkhart

Marilyn J. (Balthaser) Burkhart, 82, of Bernville passed away on January 3, 2021 at the Reading Hospital.

Born on December 15, 1938 she was the daughter of the late John H. and Irene M. (Bagenstose) Balthaser. She was the wife of the late Harold P. Burkhart, with whom she shared 52 years of marriage at his time of passing on March 17, 2012.

Marilyn was a 1956 graduate of Penn Bernville High School. She was employed by Wolfe Dye and Bleach Works Inc. in Shoemakersville where she worked as a bookkeeper until her retirement in 2000. Marilyn was a member of St. Thomas Church in Bernville and the Bernville Young at Heart Club and served on Bernville Borough Council and the Tulpehocken School Board. She was an avid reader and was a frequent visitor to the Bernville Library. Marilyn enjoyed traveling, both in the United States and abroad, with her husband, his brother and sister and their spouses, never forgetting to bring something back for each family member. She also loved baking and will be remembered for her famous apple pie.

Family was very important to Marilyn. There are many happy memories of family get-togethers, making Christmas cookies with her grandchildren, holiday meals and the games played afterwards.

Marilyn is survived by her loving children, Rachelle D. Hirneisen, wife of Jeffrey L., and Michael D. Burkhart, husband of Sherrie K. (Reigel). Also surviving are her grandchildren, Joseph M. Hirneisen, Robert P. Hirneisen, Olivia R. Burkhart and Benjamin M. Burkhart and one sister, Evelyn F. Fox.

She was predeceased by her siblings, Kenneth Balthaser, Kermit Balthaser, Gladys Weidman and J. Paul Balthaser.

Due to the current pandemic, A Celebration of Life Service will be held in the Summer of 2021.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Marilyn’s name may be made to Bernville Area Community Library, P.O. Box 580, Bernville, PA 19506.

Kirkhoff Funeral Home in Bernville is entrusted with the funeral arrangements. Online condolences may be made at milkinstrymbiskifuneralhome.com