Joseph Paul Burkhart

Joseph Paul Burkhart, 61, unexpectedly passed away on Sunday, August 16, 2026, at the Genesis Emergency Room in Somerset. 

He was born on January 14, 1966, in Zanesville, a son to the late, James and Rita (Paul) Burkhart.

Joe lived his days with a remarkable work ethic, pouring tireless energy into caring for his and his wife’s rental properties and their former restaurant, Peach’s Place. As a skilled handyman, Joe mastered an astonishing array of practical trades, excelling at plumbing, carpentry, and whatever else needed doing, except, as he would say himself, anything to do with cars. He never claimed to be a mechanic, but when it came to everything else, he was truly a jack of all trades. When confronted with a new challenge, his determination would carry him through; there was never a task he would not try to learn and conquer. Outside of work, Joe found great joy in the outdoors. He loved to hunt and took enormous pride in sharing this passion with his grandchildren. Taking Kipplyn, Krew, and Krome deer hunting was among his greatest pleasures, and he nurtured these special moments with deep affection. His grandchildren also had a love of fishing which they recently convinced their Papaw to take up, always eager to embrace new adventures and lessons. More than his skills or hobbies, Joe will be remembered for the steadfast support he offered to others. Dependable and generous with his time and talents, he was the friend and neighbor everyone wanted nearby, always ready to lend a helping hand, solve a problem, or share knowledge. His warm, approachable nature and willingness to help left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him. Above all, Joe cherished his role as a grandfather. The bond he shared with his grandchildren was unmatched, and the memories they built together will remain as a cherished legacy in their hearts.

Left behind to mourn his passing are his wife of 30 years, Creta "Peach" Burkart; his son and daughter-in-law, Dash and Ashlee McNeal; his grandchildren, Kipplyn McNeal, Krew McNeal and Krome McNeal and his siblings, Jeanne (Roger) Goodwin, Pat (Karen) Burkhart, Steve (Cindy) Burkhart and Phil (Karen) Burkhart.

Joe is preceded in death by his parents, James and Rita Burkhart as well as his father and mother-in-law, Bill and Garnett Baker.

To honor and remember Joe’s life, family and friends are welcome to visit on Thursday, August 20, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Goebel Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 36 North Buckeye St, Crooksville, OH 43731. Funeral services will be Friday, August 21 at the funeral home at 11:00 a.m. with Kyle Eveland as celebrant. Joe will then be laid to rest in Rose Hill Cemetery.