John M. Burgardt, (age 86) of Topeka, passed away June 29, 2018.  He was born in 1931 in Topeka, Kansas, to Richard and Mary (McGinnis) Wolfe.  He was later adopted by his stepfather, Albert Burgardt.  After his graduation from Hayden High School of Topeka in 1949, he served in the US Air Force as an operating room technician.

John earned a Bachelor Degree in Biological Science from Washburn University, and a Master’s Degree in Guidance & Counseling from Emporia State University.  He worked at Hayden High School from 1959-1972, teaching biology and serving as counselor and Director of Pupil Services.  He taught drivers education for many years, both at USD 501 and at the Kent-Brown Driving School.  He served at Topeka High School for 20 years as a biology teacher, counselor and athletic director. He was selected to serve as a reviewer for North Central Association, reviewing several schools in northeast Kansas.  After his retirement from Topeka High, he worked as a counselor for several years at Hope Street Academy.

John was pre-deceased by his parents and stepfather, his twin brother, Edward, a half-sister, Victoria Burgardt, his first wife, Nancy, and his son, Michael.  He is survived by his wife, Janelle, daughters Sue Hertling, Jo Ann Gawrys, Darcy Guffin (Mark Pittman), Julie (Seth) Burgardt Coulter, Amy (Daniel) Burgardt Gilchrist, sons John (Prudence) Burgardt, Jim Burgardt, Steve (Mary McManus) Burgardt, Daniel (Kimberlee) Burgardt, grandchildren Adam, Ryan, Jaime, Alexis, Keegan, Caitlyn, Bijou, Aspen, Flora, Raymond, William and Jack,  brothers Richard (Martha) Burgardt, Jim (Kathy) Burgardt, sisters Mary Brennan, Helen Rivera, and his two beloved cocker spaniels.

John will lie in state at the Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home on Monday after 2:00 p.m. where the family will receive friends from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m.  At 7:00 p.m. there will be a vigil service conducted by Rev. Jerry Volz followed by the sharing of memories.  His Funeral Liturgy will be held on Tuesday, July 3rd, at Mater Dei Assumption Catholic Church.  Interment will follow in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.  

Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to the Topeka High Historical Society or Helping Hands Humane Society and sent in care of Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave., Topeka, Kansas  66603.

Online condolences and fond memories may be left at www.brennanmathenafh.com.