Karen Marie Burckhardt

Karen "Smokie" Burkhardt (nee Luesse) of Portage Des Sioux, MO passed away on Thursday, February 29th at the Villages of St. Peters at the age of 76. Smokie is survived by her devoted husband of 56 years, Alan Burckhardt. She was the mother of Tracy (Brian) Meiners, Tina (Zac) Cody and Amy (Rick) Hancock, cherished grandmother of Sydney Hancock, AJ Cody, Drake Cody and Sommer Cody, Kourtnee (Jim) Mezo, Wyatt Meiners, Loren Meiners, great grandma of Joni Mezo and Kaci Mezo. Smokie is also survived by her beloved sister Barbara Echele, brother-in-law Clem Echele, sister-in-law Pam Luesse and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Smokie is preceded in death by her sister Connie Connor and brother Lonnie Luesse.

Smokie enjoyed her time working for the St. Charles City County Library in her hometown of Portage Des Sioux. Smokie was the town's "Library Lady”, and she cherished the relationships she had while working at the library. Tina recently found notes jotted down about specific book recommendations for her library patrons. In her younger days, Smokie was an avid reader and she loved gardening. Her yard was absolutely beautiful, and one would often find her on her deck tending to her plants and flowers. Most importantly, Smokie was so proud of her grandchildren. When she was able, she enjoyed watching and cheering on her grandchildren during their activities, even traveling to Kentucky and Illinois to show her support. Smokie will be dearly missed by those that loved her so much.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Alzheimer's Association of Greater Missouri.

Please join us to celebrate the life and love of Smokie on March 30, 2024 anytime between 2pm and 6pm at the Orchard Farm VFW 6030 N. Hwy 94 Portage des Sioux, MO 63373