Obituary of Robert W. Burns

Burns, Robert W. “Bob”

Saginaw Twp., Michigan

Robert William Burns, devoted husband, father, grandfather, and brother passed away at his home, surrounded by loved ones, on November 23, 2022.

Bob was born August 12, 1950, and was raised by his loving parents, Catherine Cronkite and Robert J. Burns on North Charles in Saginaw.

Bob attended St. Helen Grade School, and graduated from St. Andrew High School in 1968. He went on to Delta College, and completed his degree in Education at Western Michigan University. Bob continued his studies by taking graduate classes at Saginaw Valley State University.

While he began his career as an English Teacher, Bob moved into banking, retiring as a Vice President for Chemical Bank and Trust in 2015.

Exuding kindness, colleagues praised Bob as a calm, intelligent voice of reason in professional situations. He found happiness in developing genuine, lasting friendships with his customers and co-workers.

Bob donated his time and expertise to many community organizations, serving on the board of Saginaw Renewal Services for 11 years where he was proud to be part of the Washington Ave. Renewal Project in his beloved hometown. He was also of faithful member of St. Dominic Parish – St. Stephen Catholic Church and Knights of Columbus Council #4232.

In 1972, Bob married the apple of his eye, Rose Marie Rupp. They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on April 29th, 2022. Bob and Rose were blessed with two children, Michael Burns and Sarah Graves, who were the joy of Bob’s life. He was also very fond of Sarah’s husband, J.D. Graves.

His four precious grandchildren, Mary, Ally, Matthew, and Tommy Graves were a highlight of Grandpa Bob’s life as well. Family was always his top priority.

Bob is also survived by his sister, Kathy Burns Schwartz, her husband, Clem, his “little sister”, Marjorie Rupp Meyers, her husband, Allan Meyers, and his nephews, Benjamin and Matthew Meyers.

Bob was predeceased by his parents, his parents-in-law, Marie and William Ken Rupp, and two dear, lifelong, friends, Fr. Bill Taylor and Mike Jacqmain.

Bob’s family would like to extend deep gratitude to Holly and Bree of the Covenant Hospice program, who gave Bob loving and compassionate care during his final weeks.

Bob Burns was a gentle, funny, kind man of peace and community. We wish him well in Paradise.

SERVICE: A Funeral Liturgy for Bob will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, November 29, 2022 St.  Dominic Parish – St. Stephen Catholic Church, 1310 Malzahn St., Saginaw, MI 48602. Rev. Fr. Steve M. Gavit will officiate. In keeping with Bob’s wishes, cremation will follow the Funeral Liturgy and private interment will be at St. Andrew Cemetery.

VISITATION: Family and friends will gather from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the Funeral Liturgy at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 29, 2022 at the church.

MEMORIALS: Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a donation to St.  Dominic Parish – St. Stephen Catholic Church, Mustard Seed or Mary’s Mantle Catholic Home for Expectant Mothers (P.O. Box 365, Southfield, MI, 48037).  Arrangements have been entrusted to the Deisler Funeral Home, 2233 Hemmeter Rd., Saginaw MI 48603. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at the church or through www.DeislerFuneralHome.com