Michael Todd Burghart

Michael Todd Burghart, 57, passed from his earthly dwelling, January 23rd, 2025, for the promise of his heavenly place prepared by Jesus. 

Mike brought joy, laughter, warmth, and kindness with him wherever he went. Eager to share a smile or funny story, he lifted the spirits of those around him with his clever jokes and often ornery ways of showing he cared. He looked for opportunities to be generous and be present for others, encouraging them by simply being Mike. His love for his Lord and his family were defining characteristics of his life, a cup running over with goodness. He made life fun! This love for life could be seen in the twinkle of his warm brown eyes and wide grin, and heard in his contagious laughter. Acting silly was never too high a price to pay if it meant he could make a child smile or laugh. For this reason, children of all ages loved Mike dearly, and he often had a flock of them following after him. 

Mike was born on September 14th, 1967 to Robert and Patricia Appelhanz Burghart in Topeka, Kansas. He was the fourth of seven children. He graduated from Highland Park High School in 1986. As a teenager, he met the love of his life, Jafawn Hill, at the Topeka Boulevard McDonalds where they worked together. Mike and Jafawn were united in marriage on February 6th, 1988. Their union was blessed with three children and seven grandchildren. Mike and Jafawn were planning to celebrate their 37th anniversary, a testament to their true love, friendship, and partnership that built a home no one was a stranger in. Mike treasured country life and working outside on the farm with his family and his beloved, loyal German shepherd Mollie. Their farm welcomed animals of all sorts: cattle, chickens, dogs, donkeys, pigs, ducks, goats, and horses, along with a collection of tractors and implements. His holiday spirit knew no bounds…whether celebrating Christmas or the Fourth of July, birthdays, anniversaries, days of remembrance and honor, all were observed in fine fashion with flags and decorations, picnics and parties, food and music, laughter and fellowship. Mike was a dedicated Kansas City Chiefs and Royals fan, sharing this love of cheering them on together with his family. For Mike, creating joy was always worth going the extra mile. Additionally, Mike always enjoyed a witty pun, pizza in all its forms, and relaxing with his favorite beverage. He was a collector and a historian of WWII memorabilia to remember and honor Jafawn’s dad, Loren Hill’s service and sacrifice with the 78th Lightning Division. Vintage Schlitz advertising was collected to honor the memory of his dad, Bob, from whom he learned how to be the best man for his family. The embodiment of a true and proud American, Mike treasured his faith, family, and country. 

Mike made a career of providing for and serving others in the grocery business. The last twenty plus years he showcased his talents as a baker for Hy-Vee in Lawrence. He was a hard worker, a faithful and dedicated teammate, going far beyond being just a “helpful smile”. His time off was spent being the best husband, dad, and papa he could be. Mike made it a priority to attend their activities, sports, music, and hobbies. 

Mike is survived and loved beyond measure by his bride, Jafawn, daughter Loren Kientz (Casey), sons Justin (Alondra), and Jordan (Madi). His great joy was his grandchildren Waylon, Jackson, Alyssa, Aiden, Noemi, Julicia, and JJ. Siblings, Scott (Kelly), Barb (George), Patti (Mike), Tracy (Marcelino), Amanda (Melissa). Multiple aunts and uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and his work family also survive. Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Bob and Pat Burghart, in-laws Loren and Hazel Hill, infant sister Mary Beth, and granddaughter Hazel Leigh Kientz. 

The visitation and memorial service will be held at Topeka Baptist Church, where he was a proud member, 4500 SW Gage Blvd, Topeka, Kansas, 66610. The family will gather to receive friends from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Thursday, January 30th, 2025. The memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, January 31st, 2025. Burial will follow in Shawnee Center Cemetery in Wakarusa, Kansas. Memorial contributions may be made to the Topeka Baptist Church or to the Topeka Rescue Mission, 600 N Kansas Ave, Topeka, Kansas 66608. Dove Southeast Chapel, 2843 SE Minnesota Ave., is assisting the family with service arrangements. 

2 Corinthians 5:1-2, The Message

For instance, we know that when these bodies of ours are taken down like tents and folded away, they will be replaced by resurrection bodies in heaven – God made, not handmade – and we’ll never have to relocate our tents again. 

To those who knew and loved Mike, may his memory be a blessing.

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