Everett Burkholder

Everett Burkholder passed from this life into eternity with his Lord on March 9, 2026. He was born on October 25, 1930, to Alice and Howard Burkholder in Van Nuys, California. Soon afterward the family returned to the San Luis Valley and settled in Monte Vista, Colorado, where he grew up on a dairy farm with his three sisters and brother.

On January 5, 1952, Everett married the love of his life, Phyllis (Bonnie) Reinhardt. They had three daughters, Linda, Shelley, and Kristi. Seeking new opportunity, the family moved to Farmington, New Mexico, in 1957, where they welcomed a son, Rodney, in 1958. Everett and Bonnie shared 74 years of marriage and became lifelong members of St. John’s Episcopal Church, where they worshipped regularly.

Everett served 35 years with the U.S. Postal Service before retiring for one day and beginning a second career at Child Haven, where he worked as their maintenance person for another 15 years. He was never one for idle hands. A remarkably talented man, he enjoyed woodworking, knitting, oil painting, and many other crafts. He and Bonnie led an art class at the Senior Center for many years, and he knitted prayer shawls for the hospital and cancer center. Everett and Bonnie built a dome home on the Foothills, earning certification in electrical and plumbing work so they could finish the interior themselves. He could make, do, or fix nearly anything and was sought after by many clients throughout town.

Everett is survived by his beloved wife, Bonnie; daughters Linda Brown, Shelley Stricklin, and Kristi Gurule; sisters Juanita Dobey, Doris Miller, and Margery Siemering; six grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and one great-great-granddaughter. He was preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Alice; his brother Marvin; his son Rodney; and his great-grandson Cameron Brown. A multi-talented, generous, and loving man of great faith and integrity, Everett loved to tease and play games. He leaves behind a lasting legacy in the example of his life and the love of his family. He will be deeply missed.