Elmer Burghardt

Elmer W. Burghardt, age 83, passed away Friday June, 4, 2010 in Rice Lake Wisconsin. He was born February 18, 1927 in Bloomer to Aldro and Anna (Olson) Burghardt. He married Joan Johnson on October 25, 1949 in Bloomer. He proudly served in the U.S. Army during WWII and owned and operated Two Acres Supper Club. Elmer was a gifted musician. He played in several bands including Burghardt Brothers Orchestra, Ray Steinmetz Band, the Jolly Norseman, The Nuto Dixeland Band, and El-lenore to name a few. People would travel from miles around to see and hear Elmer play. He was a sports enthusiast, especially when it came to the Packers and the Brewers. He enjoyed reading, hunting, fishing, playing music, and spending time with family and friends.

He is survived by two daughters: Debra Staehler of Wausau, WI, Cindy (Jim) Greenwood or Middlebury, WI: two brothers: Don (Barbara) Burghardt of Racine WI and Clinton (Lois) Burghardt of Maryland, WI: special friend: Fran Drabek of Rice Lake, WI: three grandchildren: Katie Greenwood of Boston, MA, Chris Greenwood of Dedham, MA and Scott Stahler of Wausau, WI, four nieces, three nephews, other relatives and numerous friends.

He was preceded in death his parents, wife Joan and three sisters : Doris, Vivian and Phyllis.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, June 11, 2010 at 11:00 AM at the First Congregational Church in Bloomer. Interment of Cremains will be in the Bloomer Cemetery following the service. Military rites will be performed by the American Legion and VFW. Friends may call from 5:00-8:00 PM on Thursday, June 10, 2010 at the Olson Funeral Home in Bloomer.