Debra Burkhard

Debra A. Burkhard of Ellicottville, NY, formerly of Hamilton, Ontario passed away suddenly Sunday, May 15, 2022 at her home.

Born June 21, 1952 in Hamilton, Ontario Canada, she was the daughter of late Robert Smethurst and Georgina Smethurst ne Stremble. Deb was married to Paul Burkhard, who predeceased her on March 5, 2009.

After Debra’s immigration to the US, she was employed at Balloons Restaurant, Edelweiss Lodge, and the Ellicottville Inn. She was very involved with her community and friends in Ellicottville and loved volunteering whenever she could. She dedicated her time developing lasting relationships with the many citizens in Ellicottville as a long-standing member of the Rotary Club of Ellicottville, and the Meals on Wheels organization. Among Deb’s many interests she enjoyed spending time with friends at Balloons and being a huge Buffalo Bills fan, but the thing she cherished the most was the love for her grandchildren.

Deb is survived by daughter, Jamie Lynn Vaughan, son-in-law, Robert van Campenhout, granddaughters, Julia and Olivia van Campenhout of Hamilton Ontario, stepson, Sam Burkhard of Charleston, West Virginia, and her many close friends.

There will be no visitation at this time, a local Celebration of Life will be held at a future date. Time and location will be announced in the near future.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of O’Rourke Inc. Funeral Home. 25 River Street, Salamanca, NY.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Rotary Club of Ellicottville.

E-condolences can be sent to orouke.oroukefh@gmail.com.