Kristofor Burkhart

Kristofer Mikel Burkhart, 36, of LaGrange, Missouri, passed away at Blessing Hospital, Quincy, Illinois, Sunday, August 2, 2026.

He was born on August 8, 1989, in Denville, New Jersey to Rick and Nancy (Yates) Burkhart. It was a sunny Tuesday. He was the second son, the youngest of four and the funniest of six. He was the kindest, most compassionate, and giving. Kristofer was the most selfless person that many of us have ever and will ever know. The best and everyone’s favorite uncle.

From a young age Kris could make anyone laugh. Though he could be ornery while still giving everyone something to laugh about. Whether it was riding his bicycle with rubber boots and a cape, helping his sister remove ice from her car using a hammer. She did appreciate the sentiment. Then he introduced us siblings to lifeguard Kris. You may not have needed to be saved; you were being saved. Like the ornery badger, he didn’t give a hoot, you were being saved. A lot of fun and many timeless memories.

Kris went to Minooka High School along with his brother. In school he was wildly loved. He protected those who struggled with other kids. Including his older brother who by this time he had outgrown. So, he naturally had protective instincts. After school he followed his brother and dad to the railroad where he expanded on his unwavering love of machines. Upon being given a ring of machine keys by his dad, he was adamant about painting out which machines he had keys to. Every construction site passed, and he had a key to that.

Kris loved the outdoors. He loved hunting and fishing. He enjoyed riding 4-wheelers and playing video games. Mario was his favorite and had tattoos to prove it. Without a doubt, his favorite of all things was spending time with his beloved nieces and nephews. He was proud of being the favorite uncle.

Kris is survived by his parents, his siblings Ricky Burkhart of Baltimore, MD, Angie (Julian) Paluch of Clarence, MO, Michelle (T J) McChristy of Hannibal, MO, his precious nieces and nephews Nicholas, Kaytie, Lillian Paluch and Ethan, Sydney McChristy, his 4-legged babies Honey, Hannah, aunts, uncles, cousins and other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his grandparents Billy and Melba Yates and Wayne and Darlos Burkhart.

According to his wishes, cremation rites have been accorded. There will be no visitation or funeral services. Memorials contributions can be made to the family checks payable to his mother. Private family graveside services will be held Saturday August 8, 2026, at Combs Cemetery, Luray Mo. 

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.wilsonmckinnon.com