Barry Boniface Buerkle, 78, of Jacksonville, FL, formerly of Beechview, PA, passed away peacefully on Nov. 28, 2025 after a brief illness. Born on August 26, 1947 in Pittsburgh, PA, he was the son of the late John Jr. and Margaret Buerkle. He is survived by his wife Margaret and two brothers Bruce (Bobbi) Buerkle and David (Rose) Buerkle. Loving Father of Kristofer (Nikki) Buerkle, Kaitlin (Shawn) Cahill and John Louis IV (Chianti) Buerkle. Stepfather of Lisa (Ed) Svitek and Barbara (Joe) Ansell. Grandfather, better known as “Popsy” to Teigan, Callen and Lennon Cahill, Cianna and Owen Buerkle. Also survived by many nieces, nephews and friends.
Barry was a proud American, serving as a Paratrooper as a member of the 101st Airborne. He completed a tour in Vietnam where he was promoted to Staff Sergeant in just 14 months. After Vietnam he earned his Bachelor’s degree at the University of Pittsburgh and began his lifelong career in the transport industry, retiring from CSX Railroad in Jacksonville, FL.
Barry enjoyed visiting Pittsburgh, cheering on the Steelers and Pitt Panthers, and especially spending time with his children and grandchildren. He never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone. You either appreciated his humor, or you didn’t, but he only ever wanted to make everyone laugh and smile. His favorite daily activity included going to the local McDonalds, where everyone knew his name and brought him the “Barry Special” upon arrival. His quick wit and humor will be greatly missed.
Barry’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Paul Schrier, Sr., the team at Dolphin Pointe (specifically Rico), and Community Hospice for their continuous care and support through Barry’s final weeks. Along with his children, Kris, Kaitlin and John who surrounded him with love and support through the end.
Friends are welcome on Sunday, December 7th from 11am-2pm at PITTSBURGH CREMATION AND FUNERAL CARE 5405 Steubenville Pike, Robinson Township, PA 15136. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, December 8th at 12pm at St. Catherines of Siena in Beechview, 1915 Broadway Ave, Pittsburgh. Final resting place will be at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies in Bridgeville, PA