David William Burns

Born to Stanley Cyril Burns and Janice Orwig Burns, David was a lifelong Ann Arborite. He grew up on the ice skating rinks of Burns Park and Ann Arbor hockey leagues, and was immersed in his family’s extensive University of Michigan roots for which he felt a deep sense of pride. David attended Tappan Jr. High, Huron High School, Community High and Washtenaw Community College and was a huge University of Michigan fan.

Gifted with an extremely sharp recall, he was the memory bank of his family’s early memories and ancestry. David was extremely sentimental and fiercely loved his family as they did him. Curious and inquisitive, David had a life-long interest and broad knowledge of “how things worked”. From a young age he spent hours at his grandparent’s farm shadowing his step grandfather, tinkering with all things throughout the property. As an adult he spent years working in construction, had a power washing company and contracting business.

Highly spirited David had a natural, exuberant amount of mental and physical energy. He was keenly perceptive and his mind was always working. These were true gifts – yet also created challenges in finding balance in many aspects throughout his life. Despite his own struggles, David would go the extra mile for those he loved or felt needed help and support. He was a big believer in volunteer work. He approached life as a true optimist. He was an incredibly brave soul who never gave up on himself – always continuing on to persevere towards new chapters. David had a strong faith and regularly reflected with gratitude for the many blessings bestowed upon him throughout his life.

Often leading with a big heart, David rarely spoke ill of someone. Instead, he would point out the best in them, even if others were being critical. At his root, he was a highly sensitive and light hearted individual. He loved the thrill of adventure, the outdoors and was wild at heart. David enjoyed many genres of music, sports, and also loved to cook. He enthusiastically welcomed any opportunity to make meals for family and friends.

David was a people person who often yearned for a greater sense of community and connection. We deeply give thanks to those who showed empathy, compassion, cared about and appreciated Dave over the years. Those who saw his light through the cracks in the dark times, and the many layers of his authentic, generous soul.

Set aside from some of David’s vulnerabilities – he astonished his family again and again. He was one of their greatest teachers in terms of resilience, courage, positivity and compassion. As with each of us, he was ultimately – a spiritual being having a human experience here on earth. Our dear David is now truly and finally - free to soar as his spirit was always calling him to do.

Proceeded in death by his father and mother, David is survived by his sister Lynn Burns Laustsen (Palle), Laurie Burns Denton (Morris), Spencer Denton (nephew), Lila Denton (niece), extended family, and friends.

David will be laid to rest beside his beloved parents at Forest Hills Cemetery, in the heart of his beloved Ann Arbor.

Any donations in David’s memory can be made to:

https://www.naturalhigh.org

https://www.dawnfarm.org

https://www.newlifea2.org