Published: August 01, 2009 08:09 am      

Burkharts to celebrate golden anniversary

STRATFORD — J.R. and Betty Burkhart, Stratford, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary Aug. 8, 2009, with a come-and-go reception from 2-4 p.m. at Stratford Church of Christ activity building, 210 E. Smith. The event will be hosted by the couple's children and grandchildren.

Betty Kay Eldridge and J.R. Burkhart were married Aug. 7, 1959, at Stratford Church of Christ with John McClaren officiating.

Mr. Burkhart was a high school teacher for 26 years, primarily teaching auto mechanics, woodworking and history. Mrs. Burkhart was a homemaker and an employee at First American Bank in Stratford for 11 years. Beginning in 1989, Mr. and Mrs. Burkhart became co-owners of the family propane business, Eldridge Propane Service. They worked there until retirement in 2006. The couple now enjoys their many hobbies and working on their ranch south of Stratford. They are members of Stratford Church of Christ.

Mr. and Mrs. Burkhart have two children, Diana Burkhart, Stratford, and Barry Burkhart and wife, Vickie, of Ada. They also have four grandchildren, Dena Pike and husband, Josh, of Chickasha, Jennifer Burkhart of Norman and Drew Burkhart and Ryan Burkhart of Ada, along with one great-grandchild, Brayden Burkhart, of Norman.

All family and friends are invited to the celebration of this special occasion. The couple requests no gifts. However, your presence, written memories, or photographs would be enjoyed.