Barry L. Burkey, 66, passed from this life on Thursday, July 23, 2020, with his loving wife of 43 years by his side. Barry was born on September 23, 1953, in Hershey, PA, to George and Norma Burkey. Barry lived in Palmyra his entire life.
Barry was preceded in death by his father, George W. Burkey, and his brother, William F. Burkey.
Those left to cherish his memory are his wife Carolynne, mother Norma, sister Georgetta (Leroy), best friend David, daughter Lori and husband Mike, son Brian and Karen, son Daniel and Julie, grandchildren Nathaniel (Janae), Taylor, Kathleen (Jason), Grace (Nick), Tori, Logan, Chloe, Austin (Kierstin), Ben, and Chase, brother-in-law Bill and wife Karen, beloved nieces and nephews, extended family, and friends.
Barry and Carolynne founded North Forge Home Heating in 1981, moving to their new location of Rt. 322 in 2008. Their business brought them many cherished relationships through not only customers, but also The Hearth, Patio, & BBQ Association, and Mid-Atlantic Hearth Product Association. Their business included employees who were like family to them. Barry was well respected in the hearth industry and the local community.
Barry was a classic car enthusiast and member of the Hershey Region Antique Automobile Club, serving as a chairman for many years at the Hershey Fall Meet. Barry had a sincere love of the ocean, spending as much time as he could fishing and boating. He enjoyed sharing this passion with his family and friends. A trip to Delaware always included his favorite boardwalk treats of Thrasher’s fries and Kohr’s ice cream.
Barry was so loved and will be dearly missed by so many. His legacy will live on through his children and grandchildren.
A viewing will be held on Wednesday, July 29, 2020, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Rothermel-Finkenbinder Funeral Home, 25 W. Pine St., Palmyra, PA 17078. We will be observing the PA Covid-19 guidelines, and ask for your patience and consideration.
Barry’s corneas were donated to provide sight for two people in need.
In lieu of flowers, donations made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital at www.stjude.orgor The Four Diamonds Fund at www.fourdiamonds.org.
