CONRAD JOHN BURKMAN, Age 81, passed away on March 14, 2016. He was born February 28, 1935 in Northville, Michigan; son of John and Ruth (nee Yerkes) Burkman.
Photo circa 1980 – Conrad (right) presenting trophy to Jimmy Reid, one of the top players of the era.. Conrad was truly a household names in the pool and billiard industry as publisher of the National Billiard News. He was deeply involved with the professional side of the sport as a mentor to many top players and participated and an official and tournament referee in major competitions. Outside the world of pool and billiards, Conrad had a life rich in other experiences. He enjoyed drag racing his hot rod car. Conrad was a cinema buff; he loved watching classic movies and listening to the organ at the Redford Theater. He was passionate about photography; he often took pictures of scenery during his travels.
Conrad graduated from Northville High School; Class of 1952. He furthered his education with a Bachelor Degree from Cleary College. Conrad was united in marriage to Nina E. Freytag on August 4, 1956; they spent 59 loving years together. Conrad owned a credit bureau and published the National Billiard News; he also worked as an official for professional pool tournamets.
He enjoyed drag racing his hot rod car. Conrad was a cinema buff; he loved watching classic movies and listening to the organ at the Redford Theater. He was passionate about photography; he often took pictures of scenery during his travels. Conrad is survived by his wife Nina E. Burkman; his nephews, Bret Oldford and Steward Oldford; and his niece Amy Oldford. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Carolyn Oldford.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. Mr. Burkman will be laid to rest at Yerkes Cemetery in Northville.
(“Conrad was a friend beginning in the 1970’s through our association with the pool world as room owners and tournament producers. He generously became a consultant to the founding of Pool & Billiard Magazine in the early 1980’s. Sincere condolences to his family. Rest in peace, friend.” Harold Simonsen & Shari Stauch – P&B Mag.)
Pool World’s Conrad Burkman: February 28, 1935 – March 14, 2016