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Burns -- Robert J. Burns, 72, was called to the Lord on October 11, 2001. Bob was born in Brooklyn, New York on March 27, 1929 and was raised during the Great Depression. In 1945, Bob lied about his age and joined the Merchant Marines during WW II. Bob worked with demolition in the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel, was a fisherman, and an ironworker. Bob served in the New York Army National Guard and in 1948 went to active Army duty. While serving as a Military policeman, Bob was stationed at what is now Kirtland Air Force Base, served in the Korean Conflict, and was honorably discharged as a Corporal. Immediately attending the University of New Mexico, Bob played basketball, baseball, and is most noted for his entry into the U.N.M. Hall of Honor for the 1952 Lobo Football team. Even after amputations, Bob continued his athleticism in the Senior Olympics. Bob earned his degree in business management and fought his way to vice-president of Albuquerque Savings and Loan. Bob later retired as an Administrative Officer for the Bernalillo County Fire Department. Bob was a commander at American Legion Post 13, where he involved the Legion in the Special Olympics and Fourth of July fireworks displays. Bob was a current member at Legion Post 99 and a former member of the Elks Club. The heart of Bob Burns touched many lives as he participated in the Veterans Hospital volunteer program for amputees, worked as an A.D.A. inspector, lobbied the state for strict penalties regarding the disabled, and received the Gordan Gin Good Neighbor Award for Youth Activities. Bob was a member of Immanuel Luthern Church. Bob was preceded in death by his father, mother, and brother, John. He is survived by his wife, Jeannie of thirty years; brother, Tom; sisters, Genevive and Gertrude; daughter, Connie; two sons, Robert and Todd; and three grandchildren. A Memorial Service will be held on Monday, October 15, 2001 at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Vista Verde Mortuary, Sara Rd. at Meadowlark Ln., Rio Rancho with Pastor Randy Walquist officiating. Arrangements by Vista Verde Mortuary, Rio Rancho, 892-9920.
        Published on: Sat October 13, 2001