Robert F. Burkhardt, LESCO Co-Founder

Robert “Bob” F. Burkhardt, 85 of Naples, Fl, passed away with his family by his side on Sunday, February 13, 2022.

He was born in Cleveland, OH on November 13, 1936, to the late Harry and Mary Fornes Burkhardt.

On July 1, 1967, he married the love of his life, Virginia “Gini” Burkhardt (deceased), together they raised three wonderful children.

Bob is survived by children Debera (Chuck) Brockett, James (Kathy) Burkhardt. Daughter-in-law, Cathy. Sister Barbara O’Brien (OH) Sister Sue Murphy (VA) and Brother William (Becky), (OH); grandchildren, Clint (Stephanie), Chad (Andrea), Amanda (Jeremiah), Matthew, Curtis (Samantha), Clare, Meghan; great grandchildren, Gracen, Judah, Aurora; as well as many nieces and nephews. Preceding in death is his wife Virginia (Gini), and son Robert M., brother Harry (Skip), sister, Sally.

Bob was the co-founder of LESCO, manufacturer of agronomic products for the golf market, starting the story in 1962 in Rocky River, OH, LESCO introduced an innovative store on wheels distribution model in 1976. In 1987 LESCO was named by Forbes magazine as #66 on the list of Best Small Companies in America. In 1996 nearly 50% of major golf courses reported using LESCO products. In 2007 LESCO brand was acquired by John Deere Landscapes.

In 2016 Bob was inducted into the Northern Ohio Golf Course Superintendent’s Association Hall of Fame. He followed his Great Grandfather; Fred A. Burkhardt’s same accomplishment of 2012

A funeral Mass was held at St. Agnes Catholic Church, Naples, Fl. This was followed by interment at St. Agnes alongside his loving wife Gini.

A Memorial Service will be held at a later date in the Cleveland area.

For online condolences, please visit www.fullerfuneralhome.com.