Robert "Bob" M. Burns, Jr.

Robert "Bob" M. Burns, Jr., 81, of Meadville, passed away Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at home surrounded by his loving wife and family. 

Bob was born in Lawrenceville, on December 21, 1942, a son of the late Robert M. and Elva (Johnston) Burns, Sr.

On August 8, 1984, Bob married Mary Katherine "Kathi" Goda; she survives.

He was of the Methodist faith. 

Bob had a successful 25 year career with the PA State Police which began at the Lawrence Park Barracks. He transferred to the PA State Police Barracks in Meadville, retiring in 1992. From 1994-2001 he served as the Director of Municipal Police Training at Mercyhurst College Police Training Academy. Bob was a veteran of the Air Force where he served his country honorably from March 28, 1961 until March 26, 1965. His love for the Air Force led him to become an amateur pilot, earning his Private Pilot License. He was a graduate of South Hills High School, a 1966 graduate of the State Police Academy, and a 1980 graduate of Edinboro College where he earned his Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice. Bob was a talented bagpiper and played as a member of the Erie Zem Zem Shrine Club and the Grove City Highland Band. He also played for private events. A charter member of the Crawford County Scuba Diving Team, Bob was also a member of Taylor Hose, Vernon Central Hose, Cambridge Springs American Legion, and VFW Post #2006 where he served on the Honor Guard detail; he was a former member of the Hunting & Fishing Club and the former Meadville Club. Bob will be remembered as a man who loved and served his country well. He was a loving husband, dad, grandpap, Bob-Bob, and friend. He will be sadly missed.

In addition to his wife Kathi, of 40 years, Bob is survived by four children Robert Burns, III (Tiffany) of York, Eric Burns (Karen) of Meadville, Gregory Burns (Kristen) of Deland, FL, Megan Porter (Chad) of Meadville; nine grandchildren Kelsie Owens, Sydney Baker, Ian Burns, Ethan Burns, Aidan Burns, Lauren Burns, Cayley Porter, Addyson Porter, Brooks Burns; five great grandchildren Lumen, Zoie, William, and Copelyn Owens, Emma Baker; a sister Roberta Lagon of Dravosburg; several nieces, nephews; and many wonderful friends.

Family and friends are invited to call from 3-7 PM on Sunday, October 27, 2024 at STEPHEN P. MIZNER FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 404 CHESTNUT ST., MEADVILLE, where Funeral Services will be held at 11 AM on Monday, October 28, 2024, with Rev. Bill Hopkins officiating. Full Military Honors by VFW Post #2006 will follow.

Memorial contributions may be made in Bob's memory to Yolanda G. Barco Oncology Institute, 16792 Conneaut Lake Road, Meadville, PA 16335 or Tunnels to Towers online at www.t2t.org. 

Share a memory or condolence at www.miznerfuneralhome.com