William J. Burns

August 20, 1934 - November 25, 2021

William J. Burns, 87, of Leawood, Kansas, passed away November 25, 2021 surrounded by his loving family including his wife of 64 years, Ann. Born in Kansas City, Missouri on August 20, 1934 to James and Ada Burns, Bill is predeceased by his parents and three older sisters (Leona, Mildred, and Gimmie Catherine) and their spouses. Bill is survived by his wife Ann, their four children, Cheryl, Lori (David Fredrickson), Jim, and Joni (Jonas McCormick) as well as their seven grandchildren and their spouses: Caleb (Vivian), Daniel (Krisztina), Joshua, Samuel, and Benjamin Fredrickson and Abby and Sydney McCormick. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews and their children. Bill was a veteran of the United States Air Force and will be remembered for his enduring ambition. He built a successful trucking company, Burns Truck Lines, from the ground up. After selling the truck line he pursued his other passion, oil exploration and production. Bill will be most remembered for his cheerful sense of humor and love of teasing everyone including family, friends and even new acquaintances. Bill had a deep faith and compassion for the poor and disabled. He served on the board of the City Union Mission and supported many charities in the hopes of bringing the gospel to as many people as possible. But by far, Bill’s most cherished role was that of husband and father. His wife, children and grandchildren brought him immense joy and he will be greatly missed. A memorial service will be scheduled at a later time.