With full hearts and deep sadness, we announce the passing of Michael James Burns, age 78—a devoted husband, loving father, proud “Pop Pop,” and loyal friend. Michael passed away peacefully, at home, surrounded by the family he so deeply cherished.
The eldest of nine children born to Joan P. and James D. Burns, Michael was born on February 19th, 1947, in Bronx, NY. He was raised on Staten Island, NY, and there he met his lifelong love, Marianne (née Murray). After graduating from New Dorp High School in 1965, Michael entered Officer Candidate School (OCS) for the U.S. Army. After graduating OCS, Michael and Marianne were married, and were stationed in Butzbach, Germany where they welcomed their first child, Heather. Upon their return to the US, they resided on Staten Island, NY and Jackson, NJ, and soon welcomed Irish twin sons, Danny and Christian. Michael continued his service in the U.S. Army Reserves while stationed as the commanding officer at Fort Hancock, Sandy Hook, NJ and there began a lifelong connection to “The Hook.” A new job led Michael and Marianne to Crystal Lake, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago, where they welcomed their third son Colin. Michael and Marianne spent a decade in Crystal Lake and made countless friends, notably, his long-time best friend, Jim Ritterbusch. In 1983, Michael’s job brought the family back to the east coast, and settled in Fair Haven, NJ for the remainder of his days.
Michael was an avid soccer fan and dedicated coach and referee to each of his children and countless local kids over the years. His passion for the game lives on today through his children and grandchildren, and is a constant reminder of his love for them and the game. Michael co-founded the Peninsula Soccer Club in 1985 which has influenced generations of players, including children of those same players’ he once coached.
Michael was known to juggle many commitments concurrently, and he always found time for a game of tennis, another of his lifelong passions.
Michael could, and often would, strike up a conversation with anyone, anywhere. Always the last to leave the party, and never able to depart without one more question asked, story shared, laugh elicited or connection made. Michael brought joy, curiosity, sharp wit and a sense of humor into every room he entered. His love for those around him ran deep.
Michael was a long-time volunteer for “The Barn,” making trips to deliver food and aid to the needy in various South Bronx Missionaries of Charity soup kitchens. A man of great faith and active in his church community, he taught CCD and led the youth group ministry at Church of the Nativity for many years. Michael lived life fully—with laughter, loyalty, and a spirit that made others feel truly seen.
Above all of his charitable efforts and achievements, most notable was Michael’s love for his grandchildren and unwavering involvement in their lives. Whether it was attending a Halloween parade, a school concert or game, a dance recital or fishing trip, or especially an impromptu ice cream excursion, he would never disappoint.
Michael is survived by his loving wife Marianne and partner in marriage of 59 years, his daughter and son-in-law, Heather and Mark Munafo, son and daughter-in-law, Danny and Sarah, son Christian and partner Natalie Boelman, and son Colin, along with his eight grand-children, Aidan, Finn, Teagan, Vivian, Samuel, Susana, Eamon and Charlotte. Michael is also survived by his siblings, Alison, Anthony, Nicholas, James, Hillary, David and Adrienne, and predeceased by his brother Christopher.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, June 23rd at 11:00 am at Church of the Nativity, 180 Ridge Rd Fair Haven, NJ 07704 followed by a repast at the Mule Barn Tavern, 36 Kearney Rd Highlands, NJ 07732.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Lewy Body Dementia Association and http://dogood.t2t.org/IMOMichaelJamesBurns in Michael’s name. Thompson Memorial Home of Red Bank, NJ has been entrusted with the arrangements.
Comments powered by CComment