Gordon E. Burghardt, Jr.

After a battle with Alzheimer’s disease, Gordon E. Burghardt, Jr. went to his next journey with Our Lord on September 4, 2016.

Gordon, a husband and father, was an honest and outstanding man. He loved to joke and was a perfectionist. He was a true craftsman in everything he did, including his field of electrical and general contracting.

He leaves behind his beloved wife, Marillyn, of 53 years, as well as his children: Annette, Robert and James who were the lights of his life. Additionally, leaving his three feline children: Shania, Mandy and Tabitha who he dearly adored.

As a true stubborn German, Gordon always made sure that a job was done right and that quality materials were used. The boards had to be straight; even the screws had to be aligned on the wall outlet plates! He gave 120% in everything he did, a trait he instilled in his kids.
In his youth, he won a Model Yacht Craftsmanship award. He graduated from Manatee High School in Bradenton, Florida, then trade school for electrical. He worked for a number of years with Raytheon, traveling throughout the country installing radar systems. During Gordon’s years as an electrical contractor, he owned a 1939 LaFrance Fire Engine with an aerial ladder. Not only did he use his truck for the installation of high lights, he also brought many smiles in parades.

Being a Past Master Mason of Sarasota Lodge #147, he was also a member of the DeMolay, Eastern Star, and Trinity Commandery #16 Knights Templar. Gordon also enjoyed photography and won at the Mountain State Fair. His other interests were figuring out how things work, working with wood, and watching the Miami Dolphins and Carolina Panthers. He also graduated from the 1997 Class of the Henderson County Sheriff’s Citizens Academy.

Gordon took extreme pride in his children’s accomplishments and was always involved with their activities. His identical twins were Eagle Scouts and members of DeMolay. His daughter’s passion of gardening he shared, winning several ribbons at the Mountain State Fair.

A memorial service will be held at 2 PM Friday, September 9, 2016 at the First United Methodist Church of Hendersonville.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.tmcfunding.com to assist in their efforts to end the atrocious disease.

The family wishes to thank the Cardinal Care Center staff for taking great care of Gordon during his last six weeks.