Robert C. Burns Jr.

Robert Charles "Bob" Burns, Jr., of Austin, Texas, passed away peacefully on October 26, 2024, at the age of 77. He was born on February 16, 1947, in San Antonio, Texas, where he grew up surrounded by family and the community that shaped him into the man he would become.

Bob graduated from La Salle Catholic High School in San Antonio in 1965. The following year, driven by a deep sense of duty, he enlisted in the US Navy, joining the esteemed ranks of the Navy Seabees. Bob served bravely in Vietnam and, over the years, rose to the rank of Senior Chief Petty Officer. Among the many highlights of his distinguished career, he had the honor of serving on the brigade staff for Rear Admiral Roy L. Dunlap. In 1990, he retired from the Navy, leaving behind a legacy of courage, service, and an unwavering commitment to his fellow service members.

Bob’s family was his everything. He lovingly referred to them as his "kingdom," a testament to how much he treasured each and every member. Building a life full of love, laughter, and togetherness with his beloved wife, Agnes, was his greatest achievement. He took immense pride in the home they created together – a home filled with the warmth of family gatherings, the joy of shared traditions, and the unbreakable bonds that only grow stronger over time. Bob's devotion to his family was the cornerstone of his life, and his love for them was boundless.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Frances Burns, and by his eldest daughter, Karryn Peters, who died earlier this year.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 56 years, Agnes Burns (née Grothues), his beloved daughter, Sharon White, and son-in-law, Brian White.

Bob’s incredible legacy continues through his nine cherished grandchildren and five great-grandchildren: Blaine Prince (wife Lyn and daughter Freya), Amanda Ku (husband Daniel and sons Mateo and Adrian), Aaron Thomas, Ryan Peters (wife Shelby and sons Greysen and Ryker), Matthew Peters, Madelyn Peters, Melanie Peters, Olivia White, and Elizabeth White. Each grandchild brought him immeasurable joy and pride, and he loved nothing more than being surrounded by his family, celebrating their accomplishments, and sharing in the beautiful chaos of family life.

Bob’s family was his pride and joy, and he found purpose in every moment spent with them. Whether he was sharing stories of his Navy days, cheering on his grandchildren, or simply enjoying the company of his loved ones, he embraced every opportunity to build and strengthen his kingdom. His quiet strength, enduring love, and selfless devotion will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him.

A visitation for Bob will be held Thursday, November 7, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Cook-Walden/Forest Oaks Funeral Home, 6300 West William Cannon Drive, Austin, TX 78749, with the rosary starting at 7:00 PM. A funeral mass will occur Friday, November 8, 2024, at 10:00 AM at St Catherine of Siena Catholic Church, 4800 Convict Hill Rd, Austin, Texas 78749, followed by the burial at Cook-Walden/Forest Oaks Memorial Park, 6300 West William Cannon Drive, Austin, TX 78749.

All who knew and loved him are invited to join the family in honoring the man who built a legacy of love and who leaves behind a family that will continue to carry forward his values, strength, and unwavering spirit.