LELAND — Donald Hayward Burckhalter, born on March 19, 1952, passed away peacefully on October 18, 2024, at the age of 72. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, Donnie will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
A proud graduate of Leland High School, Donnie dedicated his career to working as a Mill Wright Supervisor. His work took him across various industrial sites, where he skillfully maintained turbines, earning respect and admiration from his colleagues.
Donnie had a passion for the great outdoors, which he expressed through his love for hunting and fishing. He was also an avid sports enthusiast, cheering fervently for NASCAR and the UNC Tarheels basketball team. Above all, Donnie cherished spending time with his family and friends, creating lasting memories that will be treasured by those he left behind.
He was a former member of the Black River Hunting Club, where he enjoyed the camaraderie and shared interests of his fellow members.
Donnie is preceded in death by his beloved parents, Eugene and Ammie Butler Burckhalter, and his brother, Jerry Burckhalter.
He leaves behind his devoted wife of 48 years, Melinda Henderson Burckhalter, and his loving daughter, Katie Burckhalter. He was a doting grandfather and “Paw Paw” to Valaney Hambrick and William Watson. Donnie is also survived by his sisters, Teresa B. Jones and Geannie B. Hewett, along with numerous extended family members and dear friends who will miss his warm presence and generous spirit.
Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during a visitation on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the Wilmington Funeral Chapel.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the Lower Cape Fear LifeCare or St. Jude Children’s Hospital, honoring Donnie legacy of care and compassion.
May Donnie Burckhalter rest in eternal peace, his memory forever cherished in the hearts of those he touched.
Share memories and condolences here.
