Marjorie Ellen Burkholder, 75, of Overland Park, Kans., passed away Thursday, August 10, 2017, surrounded by her daughters at Taylor House Hospice in Des Moines, Iowa, following a massive stroke. Visitation will be 6-8 p.m. Friday, August 18 at McGilley and Hoge Chapel. A graveside service will be held at 9 a.m. Saturday, August 19 at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery, with a Celebration of Life service to follow at 11 a.m. at Countryside Christian Church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions to Camp Mount Hermon, Olathe Church of the Brethren or a charity of your choice.
Marjorie was born November 28, 1941, in Waterloo, Iowa, to Roy and Doris (Francis) Spears. She married Jon Burkholder on August 8, 1964, in Waterloo, Iowa. She was a graduate of McPherson College and studied at Northern Arizona University, completing her master’s degree at The University of Oklahoma. She taught fourth grade in Buhler, Kans., and preschool in Overland Park. She successfully obtained accreditation and retired in 2002 as Early Childhood Director for Johnson County Parks and Recreation. In her own words, Marjorie was happy, a helper, worker and gardener. She lived her faith and actively participated in church activities, including management of Camp Mount Hermon for 10 years. She enjoyed traveling, camping, fishing, cooking, baking, canning, gardening, sewing and helping others including those less fortunate. Valuing experience and education, she was an avid reader and voraciously participated in life — attending movies, plays, concerts, tours, and speaking events. She was an advocate for the earth and enjoyed traveling the national parks with daughters and granddaughters. She was preceded in death by her father, mother, brother and husband.
Marjorie is survived by three daughters: Stephanie (Chris) Colman of Kansas City, Mo.; JoEllen Burroughs and Amy Warman of Overland Park, Kans.; three granddaughters: Abby Burroughs, Anna Warman and Ella Colman; and her brother, Ron (Pat) Spears of Waterloo, Iowa. She is survived by numerous nephews, nieces, friends and family. Though she will be missed here on earth, there is peace in knowing she is reunited with her loving husband, Jon. Online condolences may be left at www.mcgilleyhoge.com. Arr: McGilley & Hoge, 8024 Santa Fe Dr, Overland Park, Kans. 66204