Christopher Wyatt Burkhalter

Christopher Wyatt Burkhalter passed away unexpectedly on July 16, 2026, at his residence. He was born June 27, 1984, in Farmington, Missouri, the son of the late Darrell Burkhalter and Linda Marie (Silvy) Hodges of Middlebrook, Missouri.

Chris graduated from Arcadia Valley High School in 2003 and later graduated from Mineral Area College with an Associate of Arts degree. Chris loved music and played several instruments. He mastered the Alto Sax at a young age competing at a 12th grade level while in the 8th grade. Other instruments included flute, trombone, piano, steel drums, guitar and just about any other instrument he could get his hands on. He played in the jazz band at Arcadia Valley High School and sang in the choir as well. Chris participated in Track and Field. He was a successful student at Arcadia Valley earning A+ status and receiving numerous awards for his accomplishments. While attending Mineral Area College he continued his love for music by participating in the Jazz Band. He also participated in MAC Theatre. After his school years he formed a small band with his buddies.

Although his dream was to pursue degrees in music, art and architecture, he chose to put family first. He continued his dreams by keeping them as hobbies. Chris loved to work on and restore vehicles, loved to cook, fish, hunt, go camping, gardening and computer design. He also had a deep affection for animals, and his pets meant the world to him. Above all, Chris loved his family and was dedicated to collecting anything that was related to their memories. He was not a materialistic person and enjoyed “hanging out and sharing laughs” with family and friends.

Starting at the age of 18, Chris proved his dedication to his work and eventually became the manager at 21 Express. He enjoyed his job there and always arrived at work to do a great job. He had been known to spend the night at the store if the weather was bad to make sure it would be open in the morning.

Chris was a member of the Nazarene Church in Ironton. He participated in Bible competitions, church camp and was saved at a young age. Although Chris was faced with life’s struggles, he never lost his faith. Chris never met a stranger and carried the weight of the world on his shoulders, always eager to lend a helping hand putting others before himself.

Chris is survived by his mother, Linda Hodges and her companion, Nathan McKie of Middlebrook, Missouri, his brother Jeremy Burkhalter of Houston, Texas, and his brother, Randy Hodges also of Middlebrook, Missouri. Chris’ longtime companion, Erin Womble, and her three children; Collin, Jesse, and Elliot will miss him deeply.

Chris is also survived by extended family; aunts, Charlene Petit (Richard), Judy Silvey (Mike Richardson), Brenda Sweeten, Blanche Million, Tawnya Silvey, and Margaret Smith; uncles, Robert J. Silvey, Timothy Smelser (Gail), Keith Smith (Ruth); cousins, Mindy Peterman, Dawn Krause, Kaylynn Silvey, Kelly Silvey, Amber Huff, Autumn Smelser, and Timothy Smelser.

Chris was preceded in death by his father, Darrell Burkhalter; four uncles, Russell Burkhalter, Donnie Smith, Ronald Glenn Silvey, and Robert E. Silvey; and his namesake; great grandfather Alvin Wyatt Silvey.

Chris will be deeply missed by all his friends and family. He will always be remembered for his love and gentleness. He always ended a conversation with family, with “I love you…” And then there was his famous “Okey Dokey”.

Arrangements are under the direction of C.Z. Boyer and Son - Bryson Chapel in Pilot Knob, Missouri. Visitation will be on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, from 5PM until 8PM at Bryson Chapel. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at 11AM. Interment will follow the service at Arcadia Valley Memorial Park. Memorial contributions can be made online.