Donald Burkhalter

Donald Clare Burkhalter was born November 6, 1930 to Charles and Halfa Burkhalter in Davis County, Iowa. He passed away December 3, 2010 after several years of declining health and an accidental injury. Don attended school in Ottumwa, Iowa. He entered the Air Force in 1950, being stationed at various bases in the states, as well as Thule, Greenland and Trier, Germany. He was honorably discharged in 1962 and began working in Tracy, California for the Bureau of Reclamation as a hydro-power plant operator. He transferred to Glendo Dam, Wyoming in 1973 then to the Mills Control Center in 1976. He took an early medical-related retirement from the Bureau of Reclamation in 1980. Following recuperation, he was employed part time as a gunsmith, truck driver and most recently as parts delivery person for Greiner Ford, until his health worsened. Don met Elane Clifton and they were married in April, 1976 and began making their home in Casper, Wyoming. Don was a life member of the National Rifle Association and enjoyed hunting. When his health prevented the sport, he enjoyed the hunting experiences of family and friends. He and Elane were members of the Black Sheep Square Dance Club. He enjoyed card games, reading, community and college theater, old movies, Denver Broncos football and good music. He will be remembered for his love of the mountains, beautiful sunsets and his hearty, easy laugh. In addition to his wife, Elane, Don is survived by his daughter, Dana (Jeff) Landry of Willow Creek, California and two stepsons, Daniel and James Clifton, their wives and families. He is also survived by his sister, Ramona (Russell) Aldinger of Sigourney, Iowa and a brother, Paul (Doris) Burkhalter of Unionville, Iowa, as well as nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Lambert Burkhalter, a sister, Carmen Glasgow, a nephew and a niece. At his request, there will be no memorial service. A celebration of Don's life will be held later in the spring. Those who wish may make charitable donations to Central Wyoming Senior Center or health care organizations of donor's choice. Condolences for the family may be left at bustardsfuneralhome.com.