Burkhardt also worked in varied and numerous positions within in the industry. These included manager of Abacus Ranch in Snowmass, Colorado for Broadway producer Mary K. Frank; assistant to trainer Roger Cornell; steward at Rillito Downs; trainer; and agent. As a young man he worked as a houndsman at the Howard County Hunt Club.

“He really was an amazing man and he lived a fascinating life,” said John Mooney, the Executive Director of Racing at Delaware Park.  “He was very devoted to animals, particularly horses. He had a very thorough understanding of the race horse and appreciated all the individuals who worked with race horses.  He was a great friend, companion and mentor to so many people in the sport. The Delaware Park family and the racing industry has lost one of our champions. He will be missed.”