Kevin "Byrdy" Burkhardt

Kevin “Byrdy” Burkhardt, 72, passed away on Thursday November 28, 2024. Kevin was born on May 30, 1952, in Newark, NJ to Richard and Margaret (Kilgannon) Burkhardt.

“Byrdman” was a firefighter who served 38 years on the Newark Fire Department and retired as a Captain of Engine 18. He loved the job until the day he walked out the door. He was a highly decorated fire captain with numerous citations for life saving efforts. He served as President of the Relief Association, was a Board Member of the Newark Fireman’s Federal Credit Union and he was a member of the Newark Fire Officers Union, Local 1860, IAFF.

He loved golf, a good Budweiser and cigar, vacationing in Aruba, his dog Rocky and being K-Pop to his granddaughter. He was funny and quick with sarcasm.  Most importantly, Byrdy loved spending time with his family, especially down at the Jersey Shore. He is survived by his loving wife Pat, his children Brian and fiancé Angelique Conto, Mark and wife Alyssa and granddaughter Aubrey, his sister Gail and the late Lou Mercado, his sister Joan and her husband Gary Fafinski. He was predeceased by his brothers William and Gary Burkhardt.

His loss leaves a void that can never be filled. His presence will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and fellow firefighters.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, from 4-8 pm at the Higgins and Bonner Echo Lake Funeral Home, 582 Springfield Avenue, Westfield, NJ.

The Funeral Mass will be offered on Thursday, December 5th at 10:30 am at St. Bartholomew the Apostle Catholic Church, Scotch Plains, NJ. Cremation to follow will be private.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the New Jersey State Firemen’s Home in Boonton, NJ.