Bert Burkel

Bert Burkel, age 78, of Caro died on Saturday, July 30, 2011 at his residence, surrounded by his loving family and friends. He was born on April 24, 1933 in Caro to the late William and Sophie (Bublitz) Burkel. Bert was a lifelong resident of Caro and a graduate of Caro High School. He served in the United States Army during the Korean War. On July 25, 1984 he was united in marriage to Dolores “Dee” (Mason) Wood in Caro. Berts work career was on the line for General Motors where he assembled steering wheels, primarily for Mack trucks. He was a member of the Caseville F.O.E. and the Caro Moose Lodge. Over the years, Bert enjoyed winters in Arizona with Dolores, NASCAR racing, and taking motorcycle trips with friends. He was the go to guy and spent much of his time doing things for friends, neighbors, and family. The love of Berts life was his great-grandchildren. He is survived by is wife Dolores; his children, Kim Wood and Debbie (Deb) Brady, both of Caro; his grandchildren, Taren Smith-Townsend, Jill Brady, and Shane Brady; his great-grandchildren, Faith Mac Donald, Jacob Mac Donald, and KendraTownsend; two brothers, Paul Burkel of Caro and Bill Burkel of Tucson, Arizona; a sister-in-law, Ann Burkel; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Cheri Burkel; a brother, Glenn Burkel; and two sisters-in-law, Mary Burkel and Carol Burkel. A memorial service will be held at the Collon Funeral Home on Thursday, August 4, 2011 at 12:00 p.m. with Rev. Ray Karr officiating; followed by a Moose memorial service. Military honors will then be afforded by Theron Atwood American Legion Post #7 and the United States Army. Visitation will be held at the Collon Funeral Home on Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until time of service at 12:00 p.m. Memorials may be made to Hospice of Hope or the Caro Moose Lodge.