Obituary of James Pierre Burkhardt

Age 75, of Joliet, passed away peacefully, Wednesday, February 26, 2020, at home with his loving family by his side.

Born September 18, 1944, in Joliet, he was the son of the late Orville and Jennie (Goldie) Burkhardt.  He was a graduate of Grayslake High School and proudly served his country with the United States Air Force from 1964 to 1967. Jim attended the Police Academy and worked for the City of Joliet as a Police Officer for 30 years, retiring in 2000. He later worked for the River Valley Justice Center for 17 years.

Jim’s favorite pastime was collecting antiques, tractors, trains and cars, and he loved spending time with his wife on their farm. He will be sadly missed by his family and many friends.

Surviving are his beloved wife of 52 years, Shirley (Hanlon) Burkhardt; his children, James Burkhardt of Seattle, WA, Corina (Michael) Thom of Yorkville, and Nicole “Nikki” (James) Hess of Naperville; four grandchildren, Allison and Cory Thom, and Mia and Charlie Hess; one brother, Richard (Fern) Burkhardt; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one daughter, Hope Elizabeth, in infancy; one brother, William Burkhardt; and four sisters, Dian Burkhardt, Aileen (Harold) Gentry, Patricia (John) Landers and Helen (Lyle) Christensen.

Visitation for James P. Burkhardt will be held Monday, March 2, 2020, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m., at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Road (at Essington Road), Joliet, and will conclude with Military Honors under the auspices of the United States Air Force and a closing prayer at 11:00 a.m. Graveside services will be conducted Monday, at 12:30 p.m., at the Goodfarm Cemetery in rural Dwight, IL.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in his name to Joliet Area Community Hospice would be appreciated.

For more information, please call (815) 741-5500 or visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com