Obituary of Rhonda Burkholder

Rhonda Burkholder, 61, of Safety Harbor, passed away January 21st at Morton Plant Hospital from complications of her battle with cancer.

Raised in Elyria, Ohio, she graduated with honors from Elyria Catholic High School and received her Bachelor's Degree in Education from Bowling Green State University. In 1983 she came to Clearwater, Florida on vacation with her husband Dan and decided to stay. Soon after moving to Florida, she pursued her career in teaching, working 39 years for Pinellas County Schools. Rhonda spent the rest of her life in Florida where she raised her family and was an important part of so many lives.

Rhonda was predeceased by her father Ronald Kirkpatrick; mother Rosanne Haag and brother Reed Kirkpatrick. Rhonda is survived by her former husband, Daniel Burkholder; daughter Rachel Burkholder; son Bryan Burkholder; grandchildren Paige Williams and Henley Williams; and step-father Ralph Haag.

She had such a passion for teaching and building meaningful relationships with the children she taught. As a hobby Rhonda loved to spend time on the water and go fishing. Another hobby she enjoyed was reading, especially Stephen King. She loved animals and was a cat enthusiast. One of her favorite things to do was spend time with her family, whether it was going to the park or a festival or hosting a holiday.

She was a wonderful mother, daughter and friend and will be deeply missed. Her positive attitude and kind heart will be remembered by all who knew her.

Rhonda’s memorial service will be Saturday, February 18th, 2023 at 1 pm at “A Life Tribute” in Largo Florida. Please wear something colorful instead of black.