Gale K. Burkhalter, 66, of Kendall died suddenly Oct. 19, 2014.
He was born March 20, 1948, to Ervin and Beatrice (Grawin) Burkhalter at the Mauston hospital. He was baptized April 18, 1948, and confirmed June 9, 1963, at St. Matthews Ev. Lutheran Church, on South Ridge. He was a member of the Royall High School graduating class of 1967. Gale farmed in the town of Wellington with his father until he started driving semi-tractor. He was an owner-operator for 34 years. Gale loved to be on the road; he was always most happy when he was traveling. In his spare time, he would help his son Andy on the farm. He was a faithful member of St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church and attended confirmation class with his son Kenny. Gale will always be remembered for his big smile and his very friendly personality.
He is survived by his two sons, Andy and Kenny Burkhalter, both of Kendall; his mother, Beatrice Burkhalter of Oregon; his stepmom, Edith Burkhalter of La Valle; two sisters, Jill Burkhalter of Stoughton, Wis., and Cheryl Kay of De Forest, Wis.; his girlfriend and special friend, Lona Ramsden of Cresco, Iowa; a goddaughter, Leslie; and many other nephews, nieces, and other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, his grandparents, and many aunts and uncles.
A funeral service will be at 1 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 23, at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kendall. Pastor Steven Neumann will officiate. Burial will be in South Ridge Lutheran Cemetery.
Relatives and friends are invited to call Wednesday, Oct. 22, from 4–8 p.m. and at the church on Thursday from 12 p.m. until the time of the service.
The Smith-Nelson Funeral Home in Wilton is assisting the family with the arrangements. Online condolences may be sent to www.sonnenburgfamily.com.
