AMBOY — Michael R. Burkart, 68, of Amboy, died Tuesday, July 6, 2021 at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center in Rockford. 

He was born Nov. 22, 1952 in Galesburg, the son of Raymond and Marian L. (Pantenberg) Burkart.

Mike was a truck driver and drove for Sensient Flavors in Amboy for 30 years. He was a member of the Mendota Elks Lodge.

Mike married Grace Way on May 22, 1993 in Tomahawk, Wis.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Mary Kay Flowers.

Mike is survived by his wife, Grace; children, Brad Burkart and Brian (Jessica) Burkart, both of Mendota, Beth (Eric Schier) Nickel, of Sublette, Ella Payne, of Amboy; 10 grandchildren, Kaylee, Zachary, Quinton, Brady, Calvin, Kenzie, Baylie, Scarlett, Evelyn, Hudson; and four great-grandchildren; also his special friend, Chris Leffelman. 

Mike was a car and truck enthusiast and an avid motorcycle rider. He customized a 1972 Electra-glide in his basement. Mike loved working on projects with his children. He also enjoyed watching cooking shows on TV and practicing in the kitchen. His children and grandchildren were a source of pride and happiness for him. Listening to their accomplishments or watching events they were in marked highlights in his life. 

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, July 10, 2021 at 1 p.m., at the Mihm-Jones Funeral Home in Amboy with Pastor Brian McWethy officiating. Burial will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery in Mendota. A reception and gathering of family and friends will follow. Visitation will be Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the funeral home. 

A memorial has been established to the National Kidney foundation.