Steven Michael Burkhardt shuffled off his mortal coil on Sunday, September 22, 2024, at the age of 69. He is survived by his wife, Holly; sister, Kati; children, Amber and Justin; four stepchildren; six grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; and his beloved Westie dogs, Peggie and Lily; along with a grumpy cat and a vast collection of nautical related materials. He is preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Sue and Bobby.

Steve was born on February 6, 1955, in Washington, D.C., to Robert and Mary Lou Burkhardt. As the eldest of four siblings, he grew up in Rockville, MD, where he aspired to be a tough, grizzled old man as a child by "walking to school barefoot, uphill both ways in the snow". After graduating high school from Robert E. Peary class of '73, Steve worked odd jobs with even odder people then decided land was no longer for him and set sail for the seas.

In his early adulthood, Steve sailed the Caribbean with a friend, forging a love for seafood, spiced rum, and reggae music. Many adventures were had (details will not be shared since they are not appropriate for public knowledge). As aspirations of becoming a pirate passed, Steve rejoined land-lovers and made St. Augustine, Florida his new home. Steve always had a deep love for St. Augustine, and this is where he decided to "become an adult" which resulted in marrying his first wife, Lisa, and starting a family.

The Burkhardt family soon relocated to Winchester, Virginia, where Steve raised his two children while running a construction business with a close friend. As the children grew, Steve reconnected with an old friend who would become his second wife, leading him to Lynchburg, Virginia. There, he managed the Boonsboro Hardware Store, becoming a local fixture known for his sharp wit and willingness to fix items for free for any little old lady who asked.

Steve will be deeply missed by all who knew him. May he sail peacefully into the horizon on his journey, free from swells or currents, with the warmth of a red sky at night guiding his way.

There will be no services. Service of comfort rendered by Davis-Turner Funeral Service.