John A. Burns' Obituary
John Burns, 77, passed away peacefully on December 30, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on January 24, 1948, John was the son of the late Dr. Hugh and Bonnie Burns and was preceded in death by his brother, Hugh "Skip" Burns.
John was a devoted family man who was always there for those he loved. He shared 55 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Corinne (Defebo) Burns, and together they built a life centered on love, laughter, and togetherness. John found his greatest joy in his grandchildren, who were truly the light of his life.
His love for children extended well beyond his own family, and he was proudly known as "Pap John" to so many-a role he embraced with an open heart and endless affection.
In addition to his wife, John is survived by his children John Burns (Kelley), Patrick Burns (Amanda), and Bethany VanKirk; his cherished grandchildren; Isabella and Maria Burns; Scarlett and Caroline Burns; and Tyler, Allison, and Benjamin VanKirk; his sister Mary Ann Metro and brother Michael (Dorothy) Burns; and many loving in-laws, nieces, and nephews.
John was a proud Veteran of the United States Marine Corps, bravely serving his country during the Vietnam conflict. For his service and sacrifice, he was awarded the Purple Heart, an honor he carried with quiet pride.
John was deeply proud of his Hazelwood roots, a pride that stayed with him throughout his life. John loved golf and especially treasured the camaraderie and friendships formed on the course- as well as his two holes-in-one!
Some of his happiest moments were spent at the family cottage in Pymatuning, where friendships flourished and memories were made in a place that brought him great peace.
A skilled carpenter with Allegheny County, John left behind a legacy that can also be seen in the homes of his family, where much of his handiwork still stands. Yet his true legacy is not only what he built with his hands, but the lasting presence he left in the lives and hearts of those he loved.
John never met a stranger. He enjoyed talking with anyone he encountered and had a natural gift for making people feel welcome. Always ready with a wisecrack at a moment's notice, he believed laughter was one of life's most important tools-and he used it generously.
John Burns will be remembered for his kindness, humor, and unwavering love for family. His life was rich with connection, his heart full, and his memory will continue to bring smiles to all who were fortunate enough to know him.
The family will be forever grateful to the nurses, aides, and staff of Gateway Hospice for their invaluable loving care and support surrounding John in his last days.
John fought a good fight. His heart of this world may have failed but his spirit was stubbornly strong.
Viewing will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 5:30 pm at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home, 301 Curry Hollow Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15236, followed by a Remembrance Ceremony in the chapel at the funeral home at 5:30 pm. Military honors to follow.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in John's memory to: Shepherds Heart Veteran's Home - https://shepheart.org/about-shvh or to the Wounded Warriors Project - https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/
To leave online condolences please visit www.jeffersonmemorial.com
What’s your fondest memory of John?
What’s a lesson you learned from John?
Share a story where John's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with John you’ll never forget.
How did John make you smile?