John Albert Burns

SPRINGFIELD, IL – John Albert Burns, 61, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, March 26, 2015 at Memorial Medical Center Emergency Room.

He was born August 6, 1953 in Springfield to Ronald C. Burns and Francis J. Burns. He attended elementary school in Wood River, IL and graduated from Athens High School. He entered the Navy and served on a nuclear submarine. After returning from the service he worked at B & M Electric and Young’s Appliances in Springfield. He was currently employed at the Hilton as a night supervisor and engineer.

He is survived by his companion, Elizabeth Valdez of Springfield; father, Ronald C. (Virginia) Burns of Springfield; mother, Frances Hartley of Alton; brother David (Debbie) Burns of Springfield; sister, Mari Beth Crayne of Hartsburg; son, Darren (Debi) Burns of Springfield; daughter, Erica Burns; half-brother, Luke Sykes of Alton; stepdaughter Lori (Eric) Stephens of Ashland; three stepsisters: Sheri (Bobby) Williams of Springfield, Debbi Appleby of Maui, HA and Lori (Larry) Chilton of Plantersville, TX; one stepbrother, Robert (Tammy) Appleby of Kauai, HA; five grandchildren; nephews Senior Airman Daniel Burns and Jimmy Shanks; five nieces: Sharli Crayne, Kira Heckwine, Jennifer Shanks, Rhonda Shanks and other nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his brother Matthew Burns, sister Cathy Shanks and half-brother Seth Sykes.
John loved his country, music, was an avid gun enthusiast, loved art, played guitar and put newsworthy articles on Facebook.

Visitation: 9-11 am, Monday, April 6, 2015 at Staab Funeral Home.

Funeral Service: 11:00 am, Monday, April 6, 2015 at Staab Funeral Home with Vaughn Beeman officiating. Burial will follow at Camp Butler National Cemetery where military honors will be conducted.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.