Stephen W. Burkart age 48, of Cridersville, passed away unexpectedly at 2:18 a.m. Tuesday Nov. 15, 2016 at St. Rita’s Medical Center. He was born Jan. 22, 1968 in Stutgart, Germany to Dennis W. and Paula J. Beall Burkart. His father survives in Jasper, FL and mother, Paula Ruppert survives in Cridersville.
Stephen was employed by Cessna Transport for over 20 years where he was a truck driver. He was a member of the Auglaize County Sheriff’s Auxillary, enjoyed playing the drums and working around the house. He loved spending time around his pond and idolized his children and grandchildren.
Survivors include 5 children: Chelsea (Jonathon) Zeigler, Ross Burkart and Crew Burkart all of Cridersville, Alisha Sperry of Wapak and Lauren Sperry of Savannah, Georgia, grandson Jacob Rinehart, siblings Shawn (Sue) Ruppert, Mike (Judy) Ruppert and Beth (Danny Cousino) Epperson all of Wapak and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his step father David Ruppert.
Funeral services will begin at 4 p.m. Saturday at Bailiff & Son Funeral Home, Cridersville with Mike Armentrout officiating. Friends may call from noon until time of the services Saturday at the funeral home. Private graveside services will follow at a later date.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions are requested to be given for the children, c/o Chelsea Zeigler.