Edward Bruce Burns, age 88, of South Easton, MA, passed away peacefully on December 27, 2022 at Good Samaritan Medical Center, Brockton Massachusetts. Ed is predeceased by his beloved daughter, Arlene Marie Burns, and his siblings: Vincent Burns, Eugene Burns, Richard Wallace Burns, Allan Burns, and Kathy Davidson. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Alma Jane Burns, his daughter and husband, Valerie and Richard Bottary of Brockton, and his son and wife, Christopher Burns and Ann Stewart Burns of Bridgewater. He also leaves behind 2 grandchildren, Richard Burns and Samantha Bottary of Brockton, and two great grandchildren, Pamela and Victoria Yassen. He is survived by his sister, Karen Klatt of Illinois.
Born in Gustavus, Ohio in 1934, Ed earned a bachelor’s degree from Youngstown State University, and a master’s degree from the University of Connecticut in social work. He was a case worker, a staff trainer on the treatment of child abuse, and then Director of the Work Experience program for the Massachusetts Department of Social Services.
Ed was the founder of the Easton Youth Soccer League in 1976 and served as its president for 5 years with one driving philosophy: Regardless of talent, every boy and girl is guaranteed to play. “After all, it’s recreational and should be fun for everyone,” he was quoted as saying.
Ed was a long-time member of the Covenant Congregational Church, North Easton Massachusetts. He was a man of faith and active in church for most of his life. He followed the path and walked the walk.
He loved Mozart, gardening, working on engines, reclaiming throw away items and finding their useful purpose, the poet, Robert Burns, and much of what life had to offer. But his greatest joy was helping others and making people laugh. He was a good teller of bad jokes. He will be remembered fondly, and forever missed.
Funeral services will be held at the aforementioned, Covenant Congregations Church, 204 Center Street, North Easton Massachusetts on Tuesday January 3, 2023 at 12noon preceeded by visitation starting at 11am. Burial in Knollwood Memorial Park, Canton.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to: Science with a Mission – Non-profit, 602 Massapoag Ave., Sharon, MA 02067 or to New England Seafarers Mission, 1 Black Falcon Ave, Boston MA 02210 or to Music Ministry – The Bells Covenant Congregational Church, 204 Center St, North Easton, MA 02356.